Winter is Coming… Are You Prepared to Stay Healthy?

With winter comes many joys, like the holidays, snow days, and hot chocolate. 

But, it also brings the likelihood of getting sick with the flu, a cold, or sinus infections. During the cold seasons it’s more important than ever to take care of your health. That’s where Prime Medical Associates comes in – we’re here to help you stay healthy this winter and beyond.

According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), flu season can start as early as October and last as late as May. That’s a long time to be vulnerable to a virus that can cause fever, cough, body aches, and fatigue. One of the best ways to protect yourself is to get a flu shot. Prime Medical Associates offers flu shots for adults, and we can help you understand the different types of vaccines available.

However, preventative measures don’t always work. People get sick from the flu all the time. Symptoms like a stuffy or runny nose, sore throat, and cough can make you feel miserable. Over-the-counter medications like decongestants, cough suppressants, and pain relievers can help relieve your symptoms. However, it’s important to read the labels carefully and talk to your primary care provider if you have other medical conditions or take other medications.

Sinus infections, also known as sinusitis, can be caused by a virus or bacteria and often occur after a cold. Symptoms can include facial pain or pressure, headache, congestion, and fever. If you suspect you have a sinus infection, it’s important to see a doctor, as antibiotics may be necessary to treat a bacterial infection. If you suffer from chronic sinusitis, meaning you have a sinus condition that lasts for an extended period, your doctor at Prime Medical Associates in Dartmouth, Massachusetts, might recommend more holistic treatment options, such as breathing in warm, moist air or warm compresses. Ask your doctor about which treatment options may be right for you.

During the winter season, a variety of illnesses become more common due to the colder weather and increased time spent indoors. Influenza (Flu) and the common colds, are both respiratory illnesses that become one of the most prevalent. Most common colds come from a virus, but there are over 200 specific viruses that cause cold symptoms. There is also pneumonia and bronchitis, infections that inflame the lungs and bronchial tubes respectively. 

Norovirus, often referred to as the “winter vomiting bug,” is a stomach and intestinal infection that spreads easily. Other common illnesses are strep throat, a bacterial infection causing a sore and scratchy throat, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which leads to cold-like symptoms.

Asthma flare-ups can be triggered by the cold air. Among others, ear infections are often subsequent to a cold or allergy attack. It’s important to seek medical advice if you exhibit symptoms of any of these conditions.

Sickness Safety

One of the best ways to stay healthy during winter is to boost your immune system. Here are some well-being boosting tips to use this chilly late November season: 

• Maintain a healthy diet
• Regular exercise
• Adequate sleep
• Stress reduction techniques
• Hydrate
• Practice good hygiene
• Regular check-ups with your Prime Medical doctor

Implementing these habits into your daily routine can significantly improve your chances of staying healthy during cold and flu season.

Winter can be a challenging time for your health, but with the right support and information, you can stay healthy and enjoy the season. If you do have the flu or any illnesses above, we can implement different solutions to help you get back on your feet and feeling like your normal self. The solutions that we offer vary based on your medical history and unique needs, but you can rest assured that we will come up with a plan to ensure your speedy recovery. Contact Prime Medical Associates today to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.