Although most cases of influenza and the common cold are not dangerous, they can cause a lot of discomfort and significantly impact daily life.
Influenza and the common cold are very common respiratory illnesses caused by viruses, often seen more frequently in winter. While complications are rare, they can lead to serious respiratory issues, secondary infections, or bacterial infections, with severe cases posing a life-threatening risk, especially if the illness persists. Even without considering complications, influenza and colds can be quite bothersome, affecting daily activities significantly.
However, many people often regard them as “minor illnesses,” leading to neglect in prevention and treatment. Dr. Shimona B. Thakrar (USA) points out eight common mistakes people make when suffering from influenza or colds that can worsen the illness and prolong recovery, which we should avoid. These are:
1. Not changing daily habits
Dr. Shimona B. Thakrar advises not to force your body to maintain the same routine as when you are healthy. “Although it’s not a severe illness, it is still a health issue that requires time to resolve. Your body needs energy to fight off the cold or flu virus.
Prioritize rest; it’s best to cancel work or school plans for a few days to recover faster, rather than becoming more ill and needing more days off afterward. Besides giving your body time and conditions to recover, you will also prevent spreading the illness to those around you,” she states.
2. Avoiding doctors or medications
In reality, most people consider colds and flu to be “minor illnesses.” They tend to endure the symptoms without medication or rely on over-the-counter remedies purchased at the pharmacy. However, these actions can worsen your condition, leading to untreated symptoms that linger or delaying the detection of serious complications.
Dr. Shimona B. Thakrar says: “You usually do not need to see a doctor for a common cold. But call them if you exhibit flu symptoms, such as high fever, body aches, and fatigue. They can prescribe antiviral medications like oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or zanamivir (Relenza). Taking one within the first 48 hours of illness can ease symptoms and shorten the duration of the illness by one or two days.”
3. Not getting enough sleep
It’s a fact that you need to get enough sleep, or even more, if you are suffering from the flu or a cold. “Do not skimp on sleep when you have the flu or a cold. Lack of sleep can weaken your immune system, making it harder to fight off the infection. Similarly, it can allow the infection to spread and worsen, not to mention prolonging your recovery time,” Dr. Shimona B. Thakrar explains.
When suffering from the flu or a cold, nighttime sleep becomes even more important. (Illustrative image).
A study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that individuals who sleep less than 6 hours per night are four times more likely to catch a cold compared to those who sleep at least 7 hours. Therefore, make sure to go to bed early and take short naps during the day. When you have the flu or a cold, nighttime sleep is crucial, and ensure a humid environment to alleviate coughing and discomfort at night.
4. Misusing antibiotics
According to Dr. Shimona B. Thakrar, using antibiotics immediately when suffering from the common cold or flu is unnecessary. In fact, overusing them can worsen your condition.
“That prescription will not make you feel better. Antibiotics only kill bacteria, while colds and flu are caused by viruses. Almost one-third of antibiotic prescriptions are unnecessary. This can increase the risk of side effects such as diarrhea and allergic reactions. It also contributes to a significant global health issue: antibiotic resistance. That’s when bacteria become accustomed to the drug, rendering it ineffective,” she warns.
5. Skipping meals or eating irregularly
“When you’re ill, you may not feel like eating, especially if your throat is sore, but it is important to eat something. Calories and nutrients provide energy for immune cells to attack the cold and flu viruses. As a result, you can recover faster,” Dr. Shimona B. Thakrar states.
Additionally, she emphasizes that those with flu or cold should eat on schedule, not skip main meals, and have extra snacks. This helps the body avoid weakness, prevents additional digestive disorders, and ensures adequate nutrition for a quicker recovery. She suggests that when suffering from flu or cold, warm chicken soup can be a good option. Studies show this dish acts like a “classic remedy,” alleviating many uncomfortable symptoms caused by colds and flu.
6. Smoking and drinking alcohol
It is not uncommon for individuals to continue drinking alcohol or smoking when they have a cold or flu. Some think these are just “minor illnesses” and therefore not a big deal. Others even believe that alcohol and cigarettes help relieve fatigue, aid sleep, and thereby help them recover faster, or at least feel comfortable doing what they enjoy.
However, Dr. Shimona B. Thakrar warns that these habits can exacerbate your cold or flu symptoms, making them linger longer. She states: “Smoking harms the lungs and irritates your throat. This can make your cold symptoms worse. Therefore, quit smoking, pipe smoking, e-cigarettes, and avoid secondhand smoke as well.”
The Journal of the American Medical Association indicates that alcohol can dehydrate you and trigger an inflammatory response, which may worsen cold and flu symptoms. It also weakens immunity, prolonging recovery. Therefore, “those with a cold or who are ill should absolutely avoid alcohol and alcoholic beverages.”
7. Not drinking enough water
When you have a sore throat, swallowing liquids can be difficult, leading many to drink less water. Meanwhile, staying hydrated is essential when you have a cold or flu.
In addition to warm water, you can drink herbal tea when you have a cold or flu to recover faster. (Illustrative image)
Dr. Shimona B. Thakrar explains: “When you drink enough water, you can thin mucus and eliminate congestion. It can also combat headaches, boost immunity, and reduce coughing. Ensure you drink more water than usual. If you want to enhance the effect, opt for warm water or herbal teas. Nutritious soups that are not too thick are also good for boosting immunity and alleviating fatigue.”
8. Stress and irritability
Feeling fatigued, needing to change daily habits, and pausing work or study can lead many to overthink and become easily irritated. However, these negative emotions can worsen your illness and prolong recovery.
According to Dr. Shimona B. Thakrar: “A hormone that your body produces when you are stressed or angry can hinder your immune system. It also increases inflammation, which may worsen your nasal congestion. Try to focus on relaxation and recovery, and you may soon return to normal.”
She also reminds us that both colds and flu are respiratory illnesses caused by viruses, so prevention methods are similar. The best way to prevent these illnesses is to strengthen the immune system by ensuring adequate nutrition, getting enough sleep, reducing stress, and exercising regularly.
