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Cold and Flu
Questions and answers about the "Common Cold"; symptoms in the upper respiratory tract like sneezing, scratchy throat, and runny nose, but adults don't typically have fevers. Colds are usually caused by the rhinovirus (up to 40% of colds), or Coronaviruses (about 20%), but there are more than 200 viruses that can cause the common cold. Also questions about the seasonal flu, also called "regular flu", caused mostly by Type A and Type B Influenza viruses. Flu starts with similar symptoms as a cold only it hits faster and harder and usually includes fever in adults. Although the "stomach flu" is a common term, it is not a real diagnosis. The proper medical term for stomach flu is gastroenteritis (an intestinal disease, sometimes viral but also bacterial), it is often mistaken for influenza because the flu can sometimes include vomiting and diarrhea.
4,331 Questions
It's difficult to tell and you should be checked out by a doctor. If you are on any type of medications please look it up on the internet to find out what the side effects are. Some medications can cause dry mouth, dizzyness, weakness, shakiness, upset tummy, etc. If you still have your periods it's highly doubtful you are pregnant. Please see your doctor. You could have other problems such as thryoid problems or simply the flu.
What happens if you cough and your head hurts?
It shouldn't.
If it's a bad headache - a painful, incapacitating one, then you should call an ambulance. You could be having an aneurysm.
No, seriously. Call 911.
Okay don't call 911 yet this guy is right but thts worst case scenario. If you've been coughing for about a day you'll probably develop a headache.
Is type A Influenza the same as H1N1 Swine Flu?
Swine Flu (and other H1N1 flu viruses) is a Type A influenza, but all Type A influenza viruses are not swine flu, or other H1N1 viruses. Swine flu is just one of many subtypes of Type A influenza. Swine Flu is caused by the Type A H1N1/09 Virus.
Is H1N1 influenza infectious or non-infectious?
Influenza is a highly infectious disease, even when the patient is recovering (unlike many other Infectious Diseases which quit being infectious when the patient begins to recover).
Is prednisone used for long bouts of cold or flu?
Not usually, however sometimes steroids like prednisone are given when other treatment is not working and inflammation is adding to the problem with the infection. This happens more often with bacterial infections than viral infections like the flu, however, for those hospitalized with serious cases and complications of swine flu, IV steroids were often prescribed. They are also used when there is poor response to treatment of secondary bacterial infections in those with current or recent flu infections. It would be unlikely to be used in mild cases of flu or in infections like the common cold.
i agree 100% with this comment i have done some research and some test im not a doctor or a scientist but i have discovered that pot smoke does not stay in your lungs like cigg smoke would cuz weed dosent not have any of that man made crap in it for the most part weed is all natural unless someone puts stuff in that that should be there and weed does not have tar in it the resin is like that but i belive that weed some does not stick to your mucus cells or mucus membrans in your lungs the way cig smoke does that's why you cough it out
the black flem is normal for chronic smoker mainly, marijuana. its actually a good thing unlike cigarettes the black flem is coughed out of the lungs instead of kept inside where they do the most damage.
What causes headache with the flu?
Yes, often it is. It can also be a signal of dehydration that often comes with fever and flu, so if you have a headache with or without other symptoms, a good thing to do is drink a glass of water and it may completely go away. See more in the related questions below.
When you have the stomach flu how do you avoid puking?
Well, I don't think there is any specific way to stop throwing up if you're sick. But, whenever I'm sick I always eat soup and drink Gatorade and water. Even if you don't keep it down, you will get some nutrition in you, which will help you recover more quickly. You can also try taking Pepto- Bismo.
Do onions help fight off colds and flu?
Onion and garlic have natural antibiotic agents. So they can help your immune system fight bacteria and viruses. Onions and garlic have more nutritional value when they are mildly cooked than raw.
Of course onions and garlic should be included as part of your remedy along with other things but you should contact a doctor if you are sick for more than 10 days.
For more information, see the related links section below.
Different vaccines have different risks. No medication is 100% without risk, and vaccines are included in that. However, there is always ongoing vaccination monitoring for problems and they would be removed from the market if there were proven adverse effects in more than a fraction of people vaccinated. The FDA has approved for use any that are used in the US and they evaluate all trials and studies for safety and effectiveness before approval. If vaccinations are recommended by your physician, who has already weighed the benefits vs the risks before recommending them, the vaccines are going to be safer than the disease will be if you get it because you did not get the vaccine.
For the flu vaccines in particular:
There is discussion of concerns about flu vaccinations online at various sources. One of those concerns is about traces of mercury that are in flu vaccines from the preservative used in the vaccines called thimerosal.
There is no scientific data to support the concerns that some have voiced about the preservative thimerosal. There is no direct cause and effect data from scientific studies that link autism or other health problems to the thimerosal. The minuscule amount of mercury in the preservative's compound ingredients is no more than would be obtained through a meal of fish.
However, there are some manufacturers who have developed single doses of flu vaccine that will not contain the thimerosal, which may be available to those who have this concern. The larger 10cc vials will have to have the preservative added, but single dose vials and single dose pre-loaded syringes may be an option for some. Discuss this with your health care professional in advance of presenting for the vaccination if you have these concerns.
How do you get rid of soar throat?
Use apple cider,Or dip pickles into a jar of boiling water then suck on it but wait a little so it's not to hot!Try gargaling warm salt water(it works best for me). Or try sucking on a lemon with honey.And try eating dill pikles
The influenza viruses, like swine flu (H1N1/09), reproduce in a method called the lytic cycle.
As a quick and over-simplified explanation of the lytic cycle: the virus attaches to your cell (flu viruses attach to the cells of mucous tissue, mostly first in the nose, mouth and eyes), inserts its DNA/RNA into the cell and that instructs the cell to stop what it was doing as its normal function for the body and start making replications of the virus instead. In that way, the virus, a non-living organism, hijacks our bodies to supply the raw materials and do the work required to reproduce itself. Once that one cell makes a full batch of virus particles, the cell splits open and the "newbie" virus particles go attach to other cells and repeat the cycle entering cell after cell after cell. The hijacking and death of the split open cells help trigger our bodies to begin the attack on the virus. It is then that we will feel the symptoms of both the loss of the cells from their regular duties, and the immune response that includes the fever, excess mucus production, etc.
See the related questions below for more detailed information about the lytic cycle.
Can swine flu be transmitted through chicken?
Currently (5/9/09) neither the CDC nor the WHO list mosquitoes as a method of transmission of H1N1 (Swine Flu). There is no conclusive field or statistical information to prove this yet, but it is not likely. Usually mosquitoes do not carry the influenza viruses.
They do carry some other viruses such as West Nile Virus and St. Louis Encephalitis, but so far most people asked do not believe the Swine Flu will be spread by mosquitoes. But, the two viruses mentioned above that are carried by them are deadly and caution should always be taken when mosquitoes are present.
To protect yourself and family from disease carrying mosquitoes, wear long sleeves when out at night and dusk and dawn. Use DEET repellent. Wear light colored clothing since they are attracted to dark colors, and keep standing water, in which they lay eggs, emptied. Attract Hummingbirds (they eat thousands in one day), bats (equally as good in hunting them),frogs, lizards, toads, and dragonflies to your yard and garden. Purple Martin birds also are good for mosquito control but they require more maintenance and very tall and specifically built houses to attract them.
How long should one wait after getting the H1N1 vaccine before trying to get pregnant?
It doesn't matter, Vaccinations won't affect the chances of you getting pregnant.
It depends on the vaccine. Generally, at least a month. For Rubella, you have to wait three months after its administration before you can try to conceive. That's why it's so important to have a pre-conception visit at least three months before planning to get pregnant. (You don't have that luxury with "oops" babies, of course.) You can find out then if you need to update vaccines, start a multi-vitamin and folic acid, and address any routine medical issues. It's also a good idea to get a basic blood workup before trying to conceive to test for thyroid problems, hormone imbalances, etc. Most of those things are automatically included in a pre-conception visit.
If you have a nasty cough and a throbbing headache and dihorea do you have swine flu?
Probably not. While it is possible, you could easily just have a cold, regualr flu, allergies, or some other common virus.
Well, it depends.. It could be just a cold, regular flu, allergies or some other virus, but since swine flu is very popular nowdays, it would be nice to check..Can you swim after getting a flu shot?
This depends on whether you have an open wound, therefore allowing it (flu) to be exposed and endanger everyone else in the pool. If you have closed wounds you should be mindful and careful of the other people and that you don't cut yourself or anything of the sort.
How late can you get a flu shot this season?
Usually if you haven't had one by February in the Northern Hemisphere, there is no point, since the time it takes for the shot to work to protect you will likely take you beyond the most active parts of flu season (typically October to March).
It will not hurt to have one later than that, it will still protect you from the flu that the vaccines in the shot are made for if that flu comes around again in another season. Ask the pharmacist how long they will have vaccine available for the 2010-2011 season. (Walgreen's is cheaper than most places in the US these days at under $20 ~ no affiliation, just a helpful tip.)
How do you get a cold over night?
Drink and eat warm things. Stuff like ice cream would make your cold last longer. So drink something like warm tea, and eat something like soup.
Can humans catch the stomach flu from dogs?
ABSOLUTELY NOT! Dogs and cats have totally different viruses that spread and totally different bodies. Don't sweat it if your cat has the sniffles! beachball45
The cold in humans is species-specific, meaning you cannot spread it to your dog or cat, nor can you get it from them. (I don't believe cats can catch "the sniffles" it is more of a bacterial infection.)
-UsaChan147 ^^
What systems are affected by the common cold?
The hundreds of different viruses responsible for causing a common cold all make their attack on the human body in the upper respiratory tract. The virus particles attach to the cells of the mucous tissue in sinuses, nose, mouth, eyes, throat and trachea first. The bronchial tubes and lungs also can be affected. In addition to the respiratory system and eyes, the immune system is triggered to work to rid your body of the invader with an immune response, which will employ resources from the circulatory system and blood forming organs.
The flu is caused by a virus that you must be exposed to in order to get the flu. it's all lies
Does the flu always come with a fever?
The answer would have to be "almost always", if there is no fever or a low grade fever, the ill person will likely be immuno-compromised (have a disorder of the immune system) or they have a common cold virus instead of a flu virus. Symptoms can often be the same, except flu almost always involves high fever and a cold does not usually cause fevers over 101F.
Why are old people vaccinated in the winter for flu?
A few reasons: they have weaker immune systems as they age so they catch it easier, they are the largest demographic group to die each year of the seasonal flu (36,000 Americans, mostly the elderly or the very young, die each year from flu), many are unable to properly care for themselves if they live alone and get sick, so they are more likely to be dehydrated and get weaker and sicker, most of them have some degree of underlying health issues that add to the severity of any infections they get. They (and all of us) need to get seasonal flu shots each year because the types of flu that will be going around change with each new season.
How many miles per hour does a sneeze come out of your mouth?
It comes from your mouth at somewhere between 40 and 100 mph.
How many years did the Spanish flu last for?
March 11, 1918: An Army private at Fort Riley, Kansas reports to the camp hospital complaining of fever, sore throat, and headache. Before the day is over, over 100 soldiers fall sick. July 1918: Public health officials in Philadelphia issue a warning about what they call the "Spanish influenza". Aug. 27, 1918: Sailors stationed aboard the Receiving Ship at Commonwealth Pier in Boston begin reporting to the sick bay with cold symptoms. Aug. 30, 1918: At least 60 sailors aboard the Receiving Ship fall sick. September 1918: Dr. Victor Vaughn, acting Surgeon General of the Army, receives urgent orders to proceed to Camp Devens near Boston. Once there, what Vaughn sees stuns him: "I saw hundreds of young stalwart men in uniform coming into the wards of the hospital. Every bed was full, yet others crowded in. The faces wore a bluish cast; a cough brought up the blood-stained sputum. In the morning, the dead bodies are stacked about the morgue like cordwood." That day, 63 men die of influenza. Sept. 5, 1918: The Massachusetts Department of Health informs local newspapers that they are dealing with an epidemic. A doctor with the Massachusetts State Health Department says, "unless precautions are taken the disease in all probability will spread to the civilian population of the city." Sept. 24, 1918: Edward Wagner, newly transplanted from Chicago, falls ill with the flu. This flies in the face of San Francisco public health officials who had played down the threat of the flu to the public. Sept. 28, 1918: 200,000 gather for a 4th Liberty Loan Drive in Philadelphia. Days after the parade, 635 new cases of influenza were reported. Within days, the city will be forced to admit that epidemic conditions exist. Churches, schools, and theaters are ordered closed, along with all other places of "public amusement." Oct. 2, 1918: By the point, the death toll in Boston is 202. The Liberty Bond parades are cancelled as well as all sporting events. The stock market goes on half-days. Oct. 3, 1918: The epidemic reaches Seattle, Washington, with 700 cases and one death at the University of Washington Naval Training Station. Oct. 6, 1918: Philadelphia records 289 influenza-related deaths in a single day. Oct. 7, 1918: New Mexico, which had remained largely untouched by the influenza, reports its first case. Oct. 11, 1918: Santa Fe, New Mexico reports its first flu-related death. Mid-Oct.: In a single day, 851 New Yorkers die. The death rate in Philly for the period of a single week is 700 times the average. The Chicago crime rate drops 43 percent. Oct. 19, 1918: In Philadelphia, Dr. C.Y. White announces he has developed a preventative vaccine. More than 10,000 complete series of inoculations are sent to the Philadelphia Board of Health. Oct. 29, 1918: Six-ply gauze masks become mandatory in Seattle. Oct. 30, 1918: Six-ply gauze masks become mandatory in the entire state of Washington. Oct. 31 1918: Because of the Influenza Pandemic that grips the nation, most Halloween celebrations are cancelled due to quarantines. One Illinois paper reports: "The ghost parties, masquerades and dances which have always been so popular at this time of the year, are as scarce as the corn and eggs, not because of Mr. Hoover, but because of Mr. Influenza. Many parties which have been planned for Friday and Saturday night have been postponed as the quarantine will not be lifted before next Monday. But not all of the Halloween spirit has been killed by the influenza. Crowds of boys and girls have been using ticktacks on the windows, tearing down gates and and beating the porches with planks , for the last three nights, and they are all prepared to be out tonight, so be not surprised if you hear mysterious noise tonight." End of October: October 1918 ends up being the deadliest month in the history of the United States, with 195,000 Americans succumbing to the influenza. Nov. 3, 1918: The News of the World prints some suggested flu precautions: "Wash inside nose with soap and water each night and morning; force yourself to sneeze night and morning, then breathe deeply; do not wear a muffler; take sharp walks regularly and walk home from work; eat plenty of porridge." Nov. 11, 1918: Armistice is announced and World War I comes to an end. Though much of the joy is weighed down by the epidemic, people around the world venture out into the streets for the first time in order to celebrate. Many go out without their masks for the first time, leading to a surge in influenza cases in many cities for weeks after the Armistice. Nov. 18, 1918: By this date, 5,000 have died in New Mexico. Celebrating the end of World War I, 30,000 San Franciscans take to the streets to celebrate. There was much dancing and singing. Everybody wore a face mask. Nov. 21, 1918: Sirens sound in San Francisco announcing that it is safe for everyone to remove their face masks. Dec. 1918: 5,000 new cases of influenza are reported in San Francisco. Jan. 1919: Schools reopen in Seattle. March 1919: This is the first month that no influenza deaths are reported in Seattle.
