Beat Cold & Flu Season: The Natural Way

Published December 7, 2022

Stay Healthy Through The Winter Season 

  • During winter months, respiratory illnesses are on a rise.
  •  This is the time of year where we look forward to family gatherings, holiday parties, and more indoor activities. With this also comes exposure to common respiratory illnesses. 
  • This blog was designed to help prevent the spread of common illnesses and to make sure your immune system is ready for the winter season. 
  • If you have any questions about staying healthy this cold season please schedule an appointment with your Primary Care Provider or schedule an appointment with FirstChoice Primary Care online or by calling  240-720-7797

Prevent The Spread

  1. Wash hands frequently 
    • with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
    • Keep hand sanitizer or hand wipes with you 
  2. Wear a mask
    • Mask should cover your mouth and nose to provide protection
    • Change mask frequently or wash reusable mask often
  3. Maintain social distancing
  4. Get Vaccinated
    • Vaccines help decrease your chances of contracting a virus and can lessen the severity.
    • After a vaccine it is normal to have mild cold like symptoms for up to 3 days. This is your body’s normal immune response working to protect you against a future exposure. 
  5. If you’re sick, stay home 
    • Avoid contact with others if you have cold symptoms 
    • Schedule an appointment to see your healthcare provider especially if you develop a fever, chills, fatigue, persistent cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, loss of appetite, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or worsening symptoms.
    • Spreading viruses to high-risk populations like those immunocompromised, elderly or small children can lead to severe outcomes including hospitalization.

Natural Ways To Strengthen Your Immune System 

  1. Get plenty of rest
  2. Stay hydrated
    • Drink Water 6-8 cups of water daily
  3. Healthy diet & exercise
    • Get 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week
    • Avoid Sweets, processed (fast) foods and sugary drinks
  4. Talk to your provider about adding the following vitamin supplements 
    • Daily multivitamin
    • Vitamin C
    • Elderberry
    • Vitamin D

Oh No, I’m Sick

Even the most careful people get sick. If you have cold symptoms here are some suggestions to help you or your loved one get well soon!

  1. Get some rest
  2. Drink plenty of water
  3. The following things can help reduce cold symptoms as your immune system fights off the virus
    • A teaspoon of honey directly from a spoon can help suppress coughing and soothe a sore throat
    • Cough drops and throat lozenges
    • Vicks Vapor rub
    • Sit in a steamy bathroom to help with sinus and chest congestion
    • Use a humidifier 
    • Drink non caffeinated tea to help with sore throat 
    • Avoid dairy products as they can cause more mucus build up

If you have any questions about staying healthy this cold season please schedule an appointment with your Primary Care Provider or schedule an appointment with FirstChoice Primary Care online or by calling  240-720-7797

Mission Statement

At FirstChoice Primary Care we earn our patients’ trust every day. Our compassionate providers offer a holistic approach to your healthcare. We take the time to listen and truly understand the entire picture of your health.

Quick Links

Office Contact

Ph: 240.720.7797
Fax: 833.941.2314

Locations

9715 Medical Center Drive
Suite 300
Rockville, MD 20850

16701 Melford Blvd
Suite 400
Bowie, MD 20715

Follow Us

  • Facebook
  • Linkedin

2022 FirstChoice Priary Care. All rights reserved

Let’s Get Active! Chronic Kidney Disease