Good morning, this is your Wellness Wake Up Call with University of Illinois Extension.
Not only is it Healthy Lung Month, but it is also the unofficial start of cold and flu season. As school is back in session and the colder months approach, upper respiratory infections (URI’s), become more common. These are caused by viruses, like COVID-19, or bacteria that infect your respiratory tract above your vocal cords. Symptoms often include a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, and headache.
To reduce your risk, follow these tips:
- Wash your hands frequently and try not to tough your face. Did you know people touch their face an average of 23 times per hour?
- Clean and disinfect surfaces, especially before and after gatherings.
- Don’t share food, utensils, or cups, an easy way for germs to spread.
- If you are at high-risk, wear a mask and ask your health care provider about available vaccines.
If you contract a URI, here are some things that can help:
- Staying hydrated with plenty of fluids
- Eating nutrient-rich foods
- Getting high quality sleep and plenty of rest
- And taking over-the-counter medications or herbal supplements to treat your symptoms (make sure to talk to your health care provider if you are unsure what to take)
This week, follow these tips and help prevent the spread. Be mindful and stay home if you are feeling the early signs of a cold so we can all breathe a little easier this season.
Thank you for listening! I hope you have a happy and healthy day ahead. The content for this episode was provided by Rachel Mannen, Nutrition and Wellness Educator for University of Illinois Extension.
Resources:
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4022-upper-respiratory-infection
- https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/covid/lungs
