Colds are caused by any one of 200 or more viruses, making them almost impossible to cure. Generally, people must tolerate the effects of these viruses, which can last between 7 to 14 days. Colds come on gradually and spread easily, usually through hand contact or from sneezing and coughing. Symptoms include a runny nose, sneezing, stuffiness, red eyes, sore throat, dry cough, headache, muscle aches and occasional mild fever.

While the onset of a cold is gradual, the flu can hit much faster, going from feeling fine to being in bed with a fever in just a few hours. Symptoms can last between 4 to 7 days, but fatigue and weakness can last 2 to 3 weeks. Symptoms can include a moderate to high fever that can last 3 to 4 days, loss of appetite, severe muscle aches, chills, severe headache, possible sore throat, fatigue and exhaustion and a severe dry cough.

Treating colds and flu often can involve simply taking over the counter medicines to treat the symptoms. Staying at home and getting as much rest as possible, as well as drinking liquids to prevent dehydration can all help.

Hints and Tips for Beating Colds & Flu

• To help prevent the spread of germs, wash your hands regularly and keep your fingers away from your eyes and nose.
• Don’t use Antibiotics. Antibiotics won’t help a common cold, flu or other viral upper respiratory infection. They are used to treat bacterial infections and will have no effect on viruses.
• Treat the symptoms. Decongestants, chest rubs and steam inhalations can all help. Eucalyptus oil is a powerful natural decongestant which can be used in a vaporiser or bowl for relief of chest and nasal congestion.
• Take it easy. Stay home, drink fluids and get plenty of rest. Let the immune system do its work.

As recommended by the National Prescribing Service