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A cold and the flu cause many of the same symptoms. But a cold is generally mild, while the flu tends to be more severe.
A cold often starts with feeling tired, sneezing, coughing and having a runny nose. You may not have a fever or you may run a low fever--just 1 or 2 degrees higher than usual. You may also have muscle aches, a scratchy or sore throat, watery eyes and a headache.
The flu starts suddenly and hits hard. You'll probably feel weak and tired, and have a fever, dry cough, a runny nose, chills, muscle aches, severe headache, eye pain and a sore throat. It usually takes longer to get over the flu than a cold.
Not all colds and flu can be prevented. If you have a viral infection, anything you do to stimulate your immune system can help reduce the severity and duration of your illness. Echinacea, Goldenseal, Garlic, Ginseng, Hyssop, Licorice and Elderberry are several herbs that may offer protection or relief for you this cold and flu season.
In addition to taking herbs for colds and flu, it is important to have adequate nutritional support from vitamins. Beta-carotene (Vitamin A) aids in the proper function of the immune system. Vitamin C helps prevent many types of viral and bacterial infections and strengthens immune functions. Vitamin E protects the lungs, enhances the activity of Vitamin A, and helps alleviate fatigue. Zinc can help protect cells from infection and, especially in the form of a lozenge, can sooth sore throats.
The information presented is for informational purposes only. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Consult your doctor or health care practitioner for any health problem.
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