The Common Cold vs. Influenza

I have been asked numerous times within the last few months, what is the difference between a "normal" cold and influenza? What continues to surprise me, is the number of people that believe that the Flu Shot will prevent them from getting the stomach flu! Just a reminder that the stomach flu affects the gastrointestinal system and influenza mainly affects the respiratory system. With that being said, that does not mean you might not experience some gastrointestinal symptoms with a respiratory illness!
A cold, is a viral infection that is characterized by inflammation of the upper respiratory mucous membranes (nose, mouth and throat). People may often experience a fever, chills, coughing, sneezing and an overall tiredness. The symptoms usually appear over an 4-12 hour period. A common cold usually lasts anywhere from 3-7 days, sometimes longer if we do not listen to our bodies!
Influenza, is a viral illness. In most cases it often begins with a very sore throat, cough and runny nose. Sounds very similar to the common cold, right? What makes Influenza different, is the fever, chills and severe fatigue to the point that you can't get out of bed! Headaches are common, especially in the centre of the forehead with sinus pressure. Marked aches and pains in the back, arms, legs that are felt deep in the muscles. Symptoms may move to the chest, and present themselves with a burning pain under the sternum, that may be accompanied by a productive painful cough. In severe cases, influenza can rapidly deteriorate into bronchitis and pneumonia, with shortness of breath, bloody sputum and fluid in the lungs. Influenza has the potential to cause death. Those deaths usually involve an individual who's health is already compromised. Please remember, 99% of flu suffers will survive, and you will be immune for life to whatever particular strain of the influenza that you contracted!
Homeopathy is effective in boosting the immune system and restoring health quickly. The remedies help move the individual through the stages of a cold or flu quickly, shortening the overall duration and severity of symptoms!
Choose a remedy that best matches the symptoms that the sick person is exhibiting.

Aconite Napellus

• sudden onset of from exposure to a dry, cold wind
• from emotional shock or fright
• high fever
• sore throat
•  better in fresh air
• worse in a warm room, evening and at night
• fear impending death (talk about this illness killing them)

Baptisia Tintoria

• comes on suddenly
• chilly
• feels bruised all over
• head feels heavy
• to sick to move
• BAD BREATH
• really thirsty
• better rest
• worse motion

Bryonia Alba

• gradual onset
• very irritable
• whole body ahces
• want to be left alone and to go home
• bursting, splitting heache that is worse from the slightest movement
• thirsty for cold drinks

Ferrum Phosporicum (this is a remedy you can take in the early stages of a cold, even if the symptoms are really clear)

• fever
• headache
• feeling tired and worn out

Gelsemium Semprevivens

• comes on gradually over a few days
• feel dizzy, drowsy and dull
• feel like you have been hit by a truck and just want to lie down and sleep
• muscles ache
• eyelids are heavy
• chills up and down spine
• frontal headache
• may feel anxious with trembling

Hopefully this blog post was informative. If you have any questions or  in doubt, please seek advice from a qualified health care professional!


Yours in health,
Amanda