Cold and Flu Season: A little preparation goes a long way
By Mandy Smith, MSN, FNP-C
Cold and flu season is here, y’all, which means sniffles, coughs, sore throats, and the inevitable question: “Is it a cold or is it COVID?” As a direct primary care practice in Atlanta, we’re here to help you navigate those inevitable sick days with accessible, relationship-based care. We want you to have a plan that works for you and your body.
One great way to stay prepared: keep a couple of COVID tests in your medicine cabinet. If you develop respiratory symptoms, testing can help you figure out what to do next and make informed decisions about being around others. If you test negative but still have symptoms, consider repeating the test a couple of days later.
For those who choose vaccination, the most up-to-date COVID-19 and flu vaccines have arrived at CVS and other retail pharmacies, and are available to schedule now. You can learn more about your options here: CVS Immunizations.
As a reminder, A’ll Yall does not stock vaccines because of the cost of maintaining an on-site vaccine supply. Whether or not vaccination is part of your healthcare plan, we’re here to help you navigate cold and flu season with care that respects your choices, your body, and your identity.
While we’re talking about viral illnesses, it’s important to note one thing: antibiotics do not treat viruses. Colds, COVID, and most other respiratory infections are typically caused by viruses, so antibiotics won’t make the virus go away or help a person recover faster. Most viral upper respiratory infections are healed by the body with time, and can be managed at home with supportive care.
For sinus congestion, many people find relief using saline irrigation 1-2 times daily with either a neti pot or a saline spray to thin mucus and clear the sinuses. Following this with Flonase, particularly before bed, may help to reduce postnasal drip and inflammation in the sinuses.
For sinus and ear pain/pressure, warm compresses to the forehead and/or over the sinuses a few times each day may provide some relief. Over the counter pain relievers like Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Advil (ibuprofen) can be helpful for any pain, but should be used with caution in some individuals and according to the package directions.
Some folks do well with any of the over-the-counter multi-symptom remedies. Look for something that has Tylenol (acetaminophen) for pain, Mucinex (guaifenesin) to thin mucus, and Sudafed (phenylephrine) to decongest all your congested bits. Taking a multi-symptom remedy about every 4 hours while awake can provide optimal symptom relief.
Other than that, supportive care for viral illnesses generally includes getting ample rest and water. Warm showers, a humidifier, and other sources of moist air may also help ease congestion and make you a little more comfortable.
Signs that a medical visit may be warranted include fever over 101.5 Fahrenheit for more than 3 days or not responding to Tylenol (acetaminophen), severe throat, ear, or facial pain, swelling around the eyes, or general symptoms lasting longer than 10 days. Another indication to seek care is the “double sick” phenomenon, when symptoms briefly seem to improve but then return suddenly with a worse fever and cough. Red flags like shortness of breath, chest pain, confusion, dizziness, severe lethargy, inability to keep food or liquids down, and significantly reduced urinary output warrant prompt medical attention, always.
A’ll Yall is here for the whole you, especially when you’re sick and sneezy. As a direct primary care practice in Atlanta, we reserve time each day to accommodate sick visits, providing care when you really need it most.
We’re conveniently located in Candler Park and serve our member patients throughout Georgia and Atlanta, including the surrounding Decatur, Druid Hills, East Atlanta, Inman Park, and Kirkwood communities.
We encourage you to take care of yourself, take care of each other, and give us a shout if we can help take care of you!
*The above content does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reading or using the guide does not establish a physician-patient relationship. Readers must always consult a qualified healthcare professional before acting on the information. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, you should call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
