colds Archives - Health Beat

How to Tell the Difference Between Allergies and a Cold

Posted on June 13, 2023 by Jacob Lobosco

Seasonal allergies and colds can lead to a variety of similar symptoms, such as sneezing or a runny nose. However, it’s important to be able to tell the difference between both conditions to ensure that you’re getting appropriate medical treatment and to determine whether the people around you may be at risk of getting sick.

Colds and allergies are caused by different factors; as a result, they generally require different types of medication for effective treatment. Colds, which are viral, can be treated with pain relievers, antiviral medication, and rest. Allergies, which are immune system responses to certain substances, are best treated with antihistamines and nasal steroid sprays. Some medication, such as decongestants, can be helpful for both colds and allergies.

Colds and allergies can also lead to different symptoms. For example, allergies are more likely than colds to lead to eye irritation and itchiness. On the other hand, a fever, as well as general aches and pains throughout the body, can both occur due to a cold; however, they will almost never occur because of an allergy. A cold is also more likely to cause:

Sore throat
Coughing
Chest discomfort

Allergies and colds also differ in terms of how long symptoms may take to resolve. The symptoms of a cold typically last up to a week. Symptoms of an allergy, however, could take weeks to resolve. This is due, in part, to exposure to allergens; if you have a seasonal allergy to a substance such as pollen, for example, it may be difficult to avoid exposure during the course of your daily activities until the end of the season.

You can receive an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment for either seasonal allergies or colds at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 206-7001.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Stages of the Common Cold

Posted on February 15, 2023 by Jacob Lobosco

The common cold affects millions of people throughout the United States each year and is much more prevalent during the winter and spring seasons.

Colds typically cause a variety of symptoms that includes a sore throat, a runny nose, coughing, and sneezing, with some cases also causing headaches and body aches.

Many people also catch the common cold multiple times a year. Adults may have one up to three times each year on average. For children, this number is variable, but could be as high as 12 cases per year for babies and toddlers.

A common cold typically lasts between seven and 10 days and can be divided into three stages with varying symptoms.

During the early stage of a cold (often the first one to three days), you may experience a sore throat as the first symptom; this can occur as early as the first day of infection. This may be quickly followed by the onset of other typical cold symptoms.

In the peak stage of a cold, your symptoms may reach their maximum intensity, resulting in effects such as a constant runny nose, a worsened cough, or consistent aches throughout your body. In some cases, this may also lead to a fever.

The late stage of a cold takes place within the last one to three days. During this phase, the severity of your symptoms should decrease as you experience less nasal congestion and aching. While coughing may also decrease for most people, it can potentially last as long as two weeks after your initial infection.

If your symptoms last longer than average, remain intense for an extended period of time, or lead to additional symptoms such as a fever, you should visit a doctor at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 206-7001.

Treating Asthma When You Have a Cold

Posted on December 26, 2018 by Joann Ariola

Colds make us feel miserable and coughing fits tend to bring attention to us at times when we want it least. For most catching a cold is a nuisance but for others with chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma, colds can be very serious. Colds are one of the most common causes for flare ups in asthmatics. The mildest of cold symptoms can easily lead to wheezing, shortness of breath or trigger asthma attacks.

Taking preventative measures to avoid catching a cold is one of the best recommendations that asthmatics can follow. Some of these precautions include: frequently washing or sanitizing hands, staying away from individuals who have colds and avoiding contact to the eyes and nose.

Even though prevention is highly recommended, during the cold season avoiding a cold is sometimes easier said than done. If you do contract the cold virus there are several things you can do to help control your asthma:

If you are sick stay home and take care of yourself. Staying home can help you avoid environmental factors that could worsen your condition.
Monitor your air flow by frequently using a peak flow meter. If there is a drop in peak flow rates contact your physician to discuss adjustments to medication.
Keep track of changes in your condition and developing asthma symptoms such as wheezing, tightness of the chest or coughing.
Take medication as advised by your doctor.

Following these recommendations can help you manage symptoms and reduce the risk of a serious attack. If your condition continues to get worse after several days, make an appointment to see your doctor as soon as possible.

If you’d like to make an appointment with a doctor at the Jamaica Hospital Medical Center Ambulatory Care Center, call 718-206-7001 to schedule an appointment.

Poll Question- How Long Should A Cold Last?

Posted on January 12, 2016 by Xavia Malcolm

Colds are a nuisance and we often wish we could get rid of them the moment they begin. People hope their colds will last only for a few days and will go away, but colds are expected to last longer than many think. How long do you think a cold should last?

A: 3 to 5 Days

B: 5 to 7 Days

C: 7 to 14 Days

The answer is C. A cold is expected to last between one to two weeks. It is recommended that you see your physician if your cold lasts any longer. This could be a sign of a more serious issue such as a sinus infection.