Cold and flu season is upon us and for some this can mean months of being sick.
Have you ever noticed or wondered why some people seem to always have a cold, the flu or a cough especially during the colder months while others barely get sick at all? One reason could be a weakened immune system, since this makes a person more susceptible to developing bacterial and viral infections. Also, if someone has a weak immune system it is harder for their body to rid itself of the flu making the symptoms more severe and lasting for weeks or even months.
A weakened immune system and chronic illness can be the result of many things that a person maybe susceptible to, such as: financial stress, lack of proper sleep and rest, or poor nutrition; a stressful work or school environment; physical stress and trauma related to an injury or surgery; emotionally stressful relationships and family life.
An adult or child who has a healthy immune system can let a cold or the flu run its course as the body will recover on its own in a reasonable amount of time. If symptoms do not improve after a week, such as a cough that will not completely go away, chronic sinus congestion, prolonged fatigue or ear complaints, then treatment is recommended for complete recovery and even prevention.
Fever often accompanies the flu, and fever is the body’s own natural way of fighting off a viral and bacterial infection. The body is heating itself up to a high temperature to kill off the invasive virus and bacteria. This is a natural and imperative process. It is best to allow the body to rest quietly so that it can work its natural magic to get well and not suppress a fever. However, if a fever is extremely high and persistent, especially in young children and babies, it does need to be managed and seek medical attention in some cases.
Homeopathy is an effective, natural and safe way of treating and preventing chronic colds and influenza for both children and adults. Homeopathic remedies stimulate the body to heal itself and speed up the natural healing process while at the same time strengthening the immune system without adverse side effects. By strengthening the immune system, the body is then less susceptible to bacterial and viral infections.
A homeopath will look for the underlying causes of a person’s illness and other factors that are contributing to their condition, such as stresses – mentally and emotionally, sleep patterns, lifestyle or environmental conditions and health history. Homeopathy treats the whole person not just their illness, by restoring overall balance so to reduce susceptibility in general and break the cycle of chronic colds and flu. The result is not only relief from their flu symptoms but a general sense of well-being on all levels. Similarly with acute illnesses, homeopathic treatment is excellent in naturally managing a raging fever, relieving painful sore throats, earaches, sinus infections and persistent coughs.
As homeopathic treatment is individualized there are many different remedies that can be used for cold and influenza-like symptoms. With chronic conditions such as prolonged coughs, recurrent ear infections and frequent influenza, there are also many homeopathic remedies to choose from that can help.
People can learn to treat themselves and their children homeopathically at home for simple, mild conditions, but are encouraged to seek a professional homeopath for symptoms and conditions lasting more than a week, sooner if they are severe and if you or your child are experiencing frequent colds and flu throughout the year.