Allergy, Cold, Flu...AHH CHOO!

As we are embarking on another flu season, I thought I would share some info to help differentiate between an allergy, cold and the flu.

Agonizing Allergies
Headaches
Mild fatigue
Stuffy nose and/or sneezing (almost always)
Mild or scratchy sore throat
Mild cough

Treatment: Antihistamines and decongestants (allergy shots, if severe)

Icky Cold
Mild fatigue
Stuffy nose and/or sneezing
Mild to moderate cough and chest discomfort

Treatment: Relief of symptoms (Drink hot liquids, use a cool mist humidifier, steamy showers)

Fierceful Flu (sudden onset of symptoms)
Headache
Body aches
Fatigue (can last 2-3 weeks)
Dry cough
High fever (102-104)
Chest discomfort (can be severe)

Treatment: Amantadine or Rimantadine (anti-viral medications) can be taken within 24 to 48 hours after onset of symptoms. These help reduce the duration and severity of symptoms.

Prevention: The #1 way to prevent illness is to wash your hands. (soap and water for 20 seconds...ABC song) Also, stifle your cough with your elbow in lieu of spraying your hands. Your wet and slimy mucus can travel over 100 miles an hour!

Our 1st Trip to the ER

Monday morning at 1:00 am, we awoke to our little guy looking like a platypus. So, off we went to the ER. I was afraid the swelling was about to interfere with his airway. However, the inflammation has gone down and we are hopeful that he is on the road to healing. Thank you for your continued prayers and support! I cannot imagine doing life without our amazing family and friends!