Preventing colds, as well as viral infections that affect the upper respiratory tract, is especially important. Altogether a high mortality rate.
In many cases, it is due to respiratory and cardiac complications. Although they are acute pathologies with a duration, in general, no more than 7 days.
How does contagion occur?
Its transmission occurs by air, through virus-laden droplets. They come from nasal, bronchial secretions or saliva, which makes their spread very rapid. The main factor that contributes to the spread of viruses is low winter temperatures.
Winter temperatures cause the immune system to slow down, the mobility of the cilia in the nose is reduced, and the caliber of the blood vessels that irrigate the nasal mucosa decreases. Other factors that facilitate infection are: Excessive fatigue, Stress, Allergic rhinopharyngeal disorders, Intermediate phase of the menstrual cycle.
Flu and cold: is it important to differentiate them?
- The flu and cold are acute pathologies of viral origin and, under normal conditions, last 1 week. However, both have similar symptoms, a high incidence and symptomatic treatment.
- The most typical symptoms of the common cold or catarrh are the absence of fever, inflammation of the upper respiratory tract, eyes and ears. They are usually accompanied by loss of appetite and a feeling of general discomfort.
- All of this translates into frequent sneezing, nasal congestion and itchy throat. As symptoms evolve, nasal secretions acquire a thick, even purulent consistency, and cough production increases.
- Typical symptoms and signs of the flu include chills, sweating, and sudden-onset fever. In addition, there is generalized muscle discomfort and pain, headache, dry cough and sore throat.
- Fever and muscle aches usually persist for a few days, although congestion and lack of energy can last for several weeks. Convalescence is usually long, with general malaise, asthenia and cough lasting up to 2 weeks.
How to prevent colds and colds?
Prevention of colds and colds includes measures that not only help relieve discomfort, but also prevent and reduce the transmission of viruses between people.
- Avoid contact with affected people at least during the first 2-4 days of the process. Isolate yourself in case of discomfort, fever or other flu symptoms, and try to maintain good general hydration.
- Wash your hands frequently, with soap and hot water, or disinfectant gel, avoid closed spaces or places where there are many people. If possible, also avoid sudden changes in temperature.
- Cover your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing, and try to avoid tobacco and alcohol consumption, as they put a strain on the immune system and respiratory tract.
- It is also important that you follow a healthy and balanced diet, rich in fruits and vegetables. Consume vitamin C in doses of 1 g daily, it has great antioxidant power, there is some evidence of its effectiveness.
- As much as possible, avoid stress, as it is a factor that decreases the activity of the immune system. In this way, it makes you more susceptible to getting sick.
Alternatives to prevent colds and colds
In recent times, alternatives have emerged, although contrasted scientific evidence is not available in all cases. These are substances present in vegetables and mushrooms that can enhance and stimulate the immune system.
- In the case of mushrooms, their properties are due to their germanium content. Among these fungi, whose possible immunomodulatory properties are being studied, are the ascomycetes and basidiomycetes.
- The root and rhizome of Echinacea contain compounds with immunostimulating activity, although this is a non-specific mechanism. There is also evidence of the effectiveness of the ethanolic extract of the root of Pelargonium Sidoides against viral infections of the respiratory tract.
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PRONAPRESA
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