By David Allen MD
1. Tylenol, aspirin, decongestant and antihistamine are for
symptoms only, and are generally not helpful in hastening recovery. In
some cases they may delay recovery because they work against nature. For
example; Fever is a mechanism the body uses to kill bacteria and Tylenol blunt
this. Decongestants constrict blood vessel limiting the migration of the white
cells which are needed to fight bacteria and viruses. Antihistamines dry up the
secretions and these secretions trap and carry away bacteria.
2. Antibiotic are only for bacterial infections such as Strep
throat, pneumonia, some sinus infections and some bronchitis. For Flu and Cold
they are of no help and my cause harm.
3. For Influenza (Flu) there is a antiviral medicine that may help if
started within 48 hours of the onset of the illness. Tamiflu and
others.
4. There is one or two studies that have suggest benefits from zinc
lozenges in the early stage of a cold or flu.
5. Garlic tabs, or fresh and uncooked garlic has ingredients to
strengthen the bodies defenses
6. Echinacea also has be shown to strengthen the immunity and is widely
used in Germany. The dosage is 3 capsule 3x daily.
7. Plenty of water is necessary for a speedy recovery. If you have no
heart or kidney disease, +3 quarts per day is ideal.
8 Vitamin C 1000mg per day may help speed recovery but is not
preventative.
9. Concentrated sweets and table sugar suppress the white cells function and
makes you more susceptible to viral infections and delays recovery.
10. The nose is an extremity and becomes cold when the limbs are cold. To
prevent and hasten recovery if is important to maintain warm hand and feet.
11. Virus (colds and flu) are transmitted by touching a contaminated object then
picking the nose or rubbing the eye. Wash hands frequently. Disinfectant
spray to phones and counters may also be of benefit.
Prevention Measures; Plenty of water. Avoid Concentrated
sweets and sugar. Proper hand washing and avoiding contamination. Keep your
extremities warm. Get proper rest. Take garlic when exposed to someone with a
viral illness.
Early treatment (at first signs); Begin Echinacea.
Try zinc lozenges 1st 12 hours only. Consider Garlic. Continue above preventive
measures.
Treatment; Continue preventive measures, continue
Echinacea, add Vitamin C.
When to see a Physician.
1. If it begins with fever and severe muscle aching, come in
within 48 hour of onset, you may have the flu and antiviral medication may help.
2. If you have chest pain (it could be pneumonia).
3. If you have shortness of breath it should be evaluated..
4. If you have bloody phlegm.
5. If you have a severe sore throat.
6. If you have a persistent fever
7. Weakness, neck stiffness, rapid heart
rate may also be a signs of a serious illness