Winter time is often a fun season for children who are excited to make snow angels and build snowmen. Yet for the adult population, the winter season can often signify cold and flu season, as well. At Prestige Home Care, we offer comprehensive services every day of the week, including holidays. Our staff is committed to delivering professional services with both courtesy and compassion. We understand that getting sick can be unpleasant and stressful so we’ve compiled a few tips to help you get through the cold and flu season.

Many people know what are antibiotics, but they aren’t necessarily sure about how they are taken. It is a misconception that antibiotics are the best line of defense for the common cold or the flu. Even though antibiotics are medications that fight illness, they are used primarily for bacterial infections. The common cold and the flu, however, are both caused by a virus, which means that antibiotics will not work in making you feel any better. Taking antibiotics when you have a virus may do more harm than good by potentially increasing your risk of getting an infection later that may resist antibiotic treatment.

Antibiotics only cure certain bacterial infections, and if taken haphazardly, might cause serious health complications. Even though antibiotics can save people’s lives, they are generally not recommended for a cold or the flu since they do not fight infections caused by viruses. Discussing your health issues with a qualified doctor is the first step to ensuring that you receive proper treatment. Taking antibiotics for a cold or for the flu will not cure the infection, will not keep others from getting sick, might cause side effects, and may also contribute to antibiotic resistance.

If you find yourself faced with a cold or with the flu, the best measures to get you feeling better include rest, fluids and some over-the-counter products to help you manage symptoms. Oftentimes, allowing your body to fight the infection on its own will yield the best results, and you’ll be feeling better in a few days. Remember to consult with your doctor to find out the best individualized treatment plan for your particular symptoms.