If you have upper respiratory symptoms, we recommend getting tested for influenza and COVID-19. Both are on the rise, and although the new coronavirus causes a dry cough and headache, it can be mistaken for a cold.
“They both have a cough, and both can have a sore throat,” O'Mahony said. For example, if you know you have coronavirus, you may benefit from taking paxlobid. People diagnosed with influenza can take the following: antiviral agent Tamiflu, Relenza, Lapivab, Xofluza, etc.
Even if you test negative for the flu or coronavirus, it's still worth talking to your health care provider, such as your primary care physician, emergency room doctor, or telemedicine doctor.
There is no specific treatment for rhinovirus, adenovirus, or RSV, but your health care provider can give you recommendations to help you recover, such as resting, staying hydrated, and taking over-the-counter medications such as Mucinex DM or Robitusin DM. said Mr. Strange. (as there are no contraindications). They may also prescribe medicines such as cough medicine. corticosteroidsymptoms can be improved by reducing airway inflammation.
If symptoms persist for several weeks, continue to see your doctor. There are some serious bacterial infections. mycoplasma (also known as walking pneumonia) legionella bacteria Pneumococcal pneumonia can cause a severe cough.
If a doctor suspects any of these, they can run tests and prescribe appropriate antibiotics, Strange said. Additionally, some people may develop secondary bacterial infections or new viral infections, Brownstein said. These warning signs include a new fever and thicker or more severe phlegm.
Otherwise, people should wash their hands frequently and cover their mouth and nose when coughing to avoid infecting others, Strange said. Listen to your body. If you're really sick, stay indoors until you feel better. We're in the middle of a really cold season, flu season — These viruses aren't going anywhere, at least for the next few months.
Now is the time to take extra precautions and, as Strange pointed out, use common sense if you or someone around you gets sick.
This post was first published HuffPost.
