Sniffles?

It's definitely not the most wonderful time of the year when it comes to cold and flu season. But it doesn't have to be that way. Lots of people ask what they can do to get rid of a cold or prevent them altogether. My usual response is that I can prescribe a botanical combination with some vitamin C and the cold should subside in 3-5 days, or we can let it go without intervention and the cold should subside within 3-5 days. 

The viruses that cause colds are often benign and self-limiting, but be sure to give yourself time to rest. Allowing your body to recuperate should shorten the length of time you're suffering with the sniffles. Pushing yourself through your workday, workouts, and other obligations will only cause your body to fight back against your will, and send you stronger messages to slow down and take a break. Use that time to curl up and rest. The world will continue to function without you for a day or two.

The flu can be a different story. Sniffly noses, cough, and sore throat are all part of the picture, but in addition to body aches, chills, fever, and sometimes nausea and vomiting. This can be a more serious scenario, particularly to vulnerable individuals such as those with immune system malfunction or the elderly. Even if you're healthy, it's important to recognize that powering through your day can help spread the infection in addition to prolonging recovery. 

No one wants to admit defeat, particularly to a little ol' virus, but sometimes we must accept our limitations and know when to rest.