If you do happen to come down with the sniffles or get feverish this winter, your best bet may be to stay home and give yourself some TLC.
Going to the doctor when you don’t need to can add extra stress and put you in the proximity of pathogens that are stronger than the ones already in your system.
Dr. Keri Peterson, an internal medicine specialist at Lenox Hill Hospital, has some tips for what to do when you don’t feel well.
Epoch Times: What should you do when you catch a cold?
Dr. Keri Peterson: For run of the mill cold symptoms like runny nose and sore throat, good old TLC is all you need—lots of rest, fluids, and take Cold-EEZE [a homeopathic cold remedy] at the first sign of a cold.
Epoch Times: What cold or flu-like symptoms warrant a visit to your doctor?
Dr. Peterson: If you have fever, muscle aches, or cough then seeing your doctor is appropriate.
Epoch Times: Are antibiotics a good idea when you have cold and flu-like symptoms?
Dr. Peterson: Patients ask for antibiotics on a regular basis. It’s often necessary to educate them on the utility of antibiotics by letting them know that they are only indicated for bacterial infections.
Epoch Times: How can you tell if what you have is the flu or something that feels like it?
Dr. Peterson: During cold and flu season there is a huge influx of patients who have respiratory infections. It’s my job to figure out whether it is a cold, the flu or a bacterial infection. I take a thorough history, examine the patient and do a rapid flu test in the office to help determine their diagnosis.
For more tips on home remedies, and natural ways to support your immune system and heal from the flu, check out the articles below.
And remember, stress can max out your immune system so make sure that you take time to rest, relax, and rejuvenate. Don’t give those cold and flu bugs a chance!
Friends Read Free