Fall into Better Health

Fall is here, which means cooler temperatures, busy schedules and the start of cold and flu season. As kids head back to school and families spend more time indoors, respiratory illnesses can spread more easily. While you can't prevent every illness, there are simple steps you can take to help protect yourself and your family and know when it's time to see a healthcare provider.

Know the Difference Between a Cold and the Flu

Colds and the flu can have similar symptoms, but they aren't the same illness. A common cold may cause a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat and coughing. The flu can also cause these symptoms but is more likely to cause fever, body aches, chills, fatigue and a sudden onset of symptoms.

If you're unsure what's causing your symptoms or they're becoming more severe, your healthcare provider can help determine the appropriate next steps.

Wash Your Hands Regularly

One of the simplest ways to help reduce the spread of illness during cold and flu season is regular handwashing. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after being in public places, before eating and after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose. If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Stay Home When You're Sick 

It's not always easy to slow down when you have work, school or family responsibilities, but staying home when you're sick can help prevent spreading illness to others.

 Give yourself time to rest and recover, and follow your healthcare provider's recommendations for returning to normal activities.

Take Care of Your Immune System

Healthy habits are important throughout the year, but they can be especially helpful during cold and flu season.

Try to:

• Get enough quality sleep
• Eat balanced meals
• Drink plenty of water
• Stay physically active
• Manage stress
• Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke

 These habits support your overall health and can help you feel your best throughout the season.

Talk With Your Healthcare Provider About Vaccines

Vaccination is an important part of seasonal illness prevention. Talk with your healthcare provider about which vaccines may be recommended for you and your family based on factors such as age, health history and individual risk.

Your provider can answer questions and help you determine what is appropriate for you.

Know When to Call Your Doctor

Most colds improve with time and at-home care, but some symptoms may require medical attention. Consider contacting your healthcare provider if symptoms are severe, continue to get worse, don't improve as expected or you're concerned about your health.

People with certain health conditions may also be at higher risk for complications from respiratory illnesses and may benefit from contacting their healthcare provider earlier. If you experience severe difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, severe weakness or another medical emergency, seek emergency medical care.

Don't Forget About Your Mental Health

Being sick, caring for sick family members and managing a busy fall schedule can take a toll. Make sure you're taking care of your mental health, too.

Get enough rest, make time to decompress and reach out for support when you need it. If stress, anxiety or other mental health concerns begin interfering with your daily life, talking with a behavioral health professional can be a helpful step.

Help Your Family Stay Healthy This Fall

Cold and flu season doesn't have to mean putting your family's health on hold. Good hygiene, healthy habits, staying home when you're sick and keeping up with recommended preventive care can all play a role in staying healthy.

At Pinnacle Family Health, we provide primary care and other healthcare services to help you and your family stay healthy throughout the year. If you have questions about your symptoms or your family's healthcare needs, our team is here to help.

This fall, make your health a priority and be prepared for cold and flu season.