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
