Dealing with Colds and Flu Season

  

Every year around the winter months, so many folks I know start gettin' sick with stuffy noses and coughs. It's good to know the diff'rence between a cold and the flu, and ways to feel better when ya catch one. I'm gonna tell ya what I've learned to handle this time a year when germs are everywhere.

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**Cold vs. Flu - What Really Happens?**

While colds and flu both mess with yer breathing, they ain't exactly the same thing. Here's what I've seen with friends who been through it:

**Protect Your Health:**

The best defense is a good offense. To stay well, do this: 

- Get yer flu shot! Especially important for us old timers, the kiddos, and anyone with existing problems. Ain't no shot for colds but keepin' strong helps too.

- Wash them paws! With soap for 20 seconds plenty o' times a day. And don't rub yer eyes with dirty mitts neither. Hand sanitizer works if no sink is around.  

- Disinfect surfaces: Anything folks are always touchin', like doorknobs, light switches and counters, needs cleaning regular-like.

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- Distance yerself from sickies: Specially in the thick of cold/flu seasons, limit bein' by anyone who's under the weather.

- Nourish your body: Eat good grub, sleep plenty, exercise - it keeps yer immune system in tip-top shape for fightin' off bugs.

**Feel Better Fast:**

Ain't no magic potions but ya can treat what ails ya:

- Rest up: Sleep is medicinal, gives yer body time to heal itself proper-like. 

- Stay hydrated: Drink fluids so ya don't dry out. Broth is comfortin' too when sick.

- Use meds: Painkillers and decongestants and such give temporary relief - mind the directions careful-like.

- Humidifier: Soothes a sore neck and loosens stuffiness. 

- Try saline: Helps clean out the sinuses.

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**See the Doc When:**

Most colds and flu clear on their own, but see the doctor if:

- Breathin' is hard  

- Fever over 103° stays around too long

- Symptoms get much worse or don't improve after a week  

- Bad chest pains kick in

- Signs of not drinkin' enough, like peein' less or feelin' dizzy

- Ya got underlying conditions

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Always check with the healthcare folks if ya got any worries 'bout stayin' well. Knowin' what to expect helps a bunch gettin' through virus season!