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Resist the flu peak season! Traditional Chinese medicine shares the differences between flu and cold, and how to alleviate flu and cold symptoms.


Release time:

2024-10-11

Influenza is an acute respiratory infectious disease caused by the influenza virus. It has significant seasonal characteristics in Hong Kong.

What is influenza?

Influenza, also known as the flu, is an acute respiratory infectious disease caused by the influenza virus. It has distinct seasonal characteristics in Hong Kong. Although influenza seems common in our daily lives, it actually has a significant impact on our health, especially for children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems, and requires considerable attention.

 

In Hong Kong, the peak period for influenza usually occurs from January to April and from July to August. It is recommended that everyone maintain personal hygiene, ensure indoor ventilation, wash hands frequently, wear masks, and avoid crowded places to reduce the risk of infection. Type A and Type B influenza are the most common types, and while they share many similar symptoms, there are some differences. Type A influenza is associated with more severe outbreaks and can lead to serious complications, while Type B influenza is generally milder.

 

Symptoms of different types of influenza

Type A and Type B influenza are two different subtypes of the influenza virus. Although both can cause similar symptoms, their incubation periods and clinical presentations differ slightly. According to data, the incubation period for Type A influenza is usually longer, taking 1 to 3 days, or even up to 7 days, before obvious symptoms appear, while Type B influenza generally has a shorter incubation period. The initial symptoms of both are similar to those of a common cold, but patients with Type A influenza usually have a higher fever, often exceeding 39°C, accompanied by muscle aches, dizziness, headaches, diarrhea, and vomiting, with mild or negligible respiratory symptoms. Type B influenza patients may also experience similar symptoms, such as persistent high fever and lethargy, but respiratory symptoms are relatively mild, possibly including dry throat, pain, and dry cough.

Influenza vs. Cold

Although influenza and the common cold are both respiratory diseases, there are significant differences in their clinical presentations. The common cold is usually caused by viruses such as rhinovirus, coronavirus, or adenovirus, and symptoms are milder, such as sore throat, runny nose, and cough. In contrast, influenza is a respiratory infection caused by the influenza virus, with more severe symptoms, including high fever, muscle aches, headaches, and fatigue. Although there are overlapping symptoms, it is still important to distinguish between the two, especially paying attention to the patient's systemic symptoms, particularly any significant feelings of discomfort. Severe influenza can lead to complications such as respiratory infections and pneumonia, which can even be life-threatening. Therefore, if symptoms of acute respiratory infection suggestive of influenza appear, it is important to seek medical help as soon as possible for timely diagnosis and treatment to avoid delaying the condition.


Methods for diagnosing influenza and the optimal treatment window

According to data from the World Health Organization, influenza is a respiratory disease that spreads most widely during the winter months, posing a serious threat to people's health. When doctors diagnose whether a patient is infected with influenza, they often choose rapid influenza diagnostic tests. This test detects influenza antigens in the patient's nasal swab sample and can provide results on whether the patient is infected with Type A or Type B influenza in just 15 minutes. For healthy adults, starting antiviral treatment within 48 hours of the onset of influenza symptoms is considered the best time. Early treatment can quickly alleviate symptoms, shorten the duration of the illness, and reduce the risk of complications. Therefore, anyone showing symptoms of influenza should seek medical attention promptly for timely and effective treatment.

 

Methods to alleviate symptoms of influenza and cold

When experiencing early symptoms of a cold, we can take some simple self-care methods to alleviate the symptoms.

Clean the mouth to prevent bacterial growth. Additionally, gently massaging the back of the neck with the palm can promote local blood circulation, aiding in recovery. At the same time, pressing acupoints such as Hegu and Zusanli can enhance immunity and strengthen the ability to fight viruses.
When using traditional Chinese medicine to alleviate symptoms of influenza and cold, be careful not to boil the herbs for too long to avoid affecting the retention of effective ingredients. Choosing the appropriate medication based on the possible causes of the cold is crucial. For wind-heat colds, it is advisable to choose cooling medications; for wind-cold colds, warming medications are recommended to enhance effectiveness. After taking medication, avoid drafts and cover yourself appropriately to allow the body to sweat slightly. In terms of diet, consuming warm foods such as hot porridge or rice soup can promote sweating and aid recovery. However, it is important to avoid excessive sweating to prevent burdening the body and affecting the recovery process.


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