Cough: When the respiratory tract produces excess phlegm
(mucus), coughing expels it , stopping infectious phlegm
from descending into your lungs where it could lead to a
serious chest infection. A productive cough produces
phlegm. A non productive (dry) cough produces no phlegm,
and is often caused by irritation. Dry cough along with leg
and backaches, fever, headache and sore throat, may signal
the flu. A cough with colored phlegm may be an infection
such as bronchitis or sinusitis. A cough with wheezing and
chest constriction may be asthma. For a cough that produces
blood with chest pain you must see a doctor
immediately.Sore throat: Within this broad category are
problems such as tonsillitis, strep throat, laryngitis,
epiglottitis, and so on, all of which are more specific
terms indicating which part of the respiratory apparatus or
what kind of germ is involved. Most cases of sore throat,
especially when they accompany a common cold, are mild,
cause a minimum of discomfort, and clear up within a few
days. Not all sore throats are as benign as this, however,
and parents should be alert to the possibility of a more
serious infection. Be alert for rapidly worsening symptoms,
especially distress or difficulty when breathing. Cold and
flu viruses attack the nose, nasal sinuses, throat and the
upper breathing tubes (trachea and bronchi).
As they invade the moist skin lining of these structures,
they cause runny nose, sinus congestion, sneezing, sore
throat and cough. Fever might also occur, usually with the
flu.
These classic symptoms begin 1-4 days after contact with
the virus and usually last 5-7 days, but can linger on.
Both colds and flu are caused by viruses, and the real
difference between them is simply the type of virus that
causes the illness.
The only way to catch a cold or flu is from other people.
The viruses are spread by tiny droplets in the air (such as
from a cough or sneeze) or from direct contact (especially
handshaking).
Infected people can spread the virus from a day or two
before they even have symptoms to three or four days after
the symptoms start.
Other more serious illnesses are associated with colds and
may begin with the same symptoms.
It is important to see your doctor for evaluation
if any of the following occurs:
Severe, continuos vomiting or diarrhea lasting 8 hrs. or
any vomiting and diarrhea not improved after 24 hrs; fever
over 102 degrees, earache, shaking chills, difficulty
breathing, skin rash, unusual lethargy or delirium,
Alternative first aid for cough and sore
throat:
Rest. Drink extra fluids. Gargle with warm salt water..
Chamomile tea is particularly effective in treating pain
because of its soothing nature, and can be taken by all age
groups. Sage is beneficial in treating pharyngitis and
other throat pains by reducing inflammation and protecting
the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat.
Garlic, a natural antibiotic, can be helpful in the
speeding up of recovery and removal of bacteria; Garlic can
be taken in pill form by all age groups
An infusion of fresh Thyme with the addition of a teaspoon
of lemon juice and a teaspoon of honey is very effective,
this can be taken three times a day.
Essential oil: put a drop of Tea Tree oil,
Clove oil or sweet thyme oil on your tooth brush, the
normal amount of tooth paste and brush your teeth normally;
the essential oil act as a potent disinfectant, mixed with
the tooth paste.
Homeopathic remedies:
Nux vomica: sensitive to least draught; sneezing from
itching in nose, throat, trachea; great heat, burning but
if uncover become chilly
Best alternative treatment:
Acupuncture: eliminate symptoms,
boost immune system, facilitate recovery
Homeopathy: Clear symptoms quickly
