Special Edition

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Note: UW Medicine does not endorse or support any organization (including any commercial entities) whose names appear in this newsletter or on other linked websites.

Freeze the sneeze: 3 ways to beat the sniffles

Achooo! If this is you during the colder months, it’s time to get prepared. As temperatures continue to drop, the inevitable cold and flu season is just around the corner.

The common cold is a viral infection (most commonly caused by a rhinovirus) that usually lasts for five to seven days and resolves without any treatments.

While your cold can clear on its own, we know that being under the weather can be both inconvenient and uncomfortable. So, we’ve consulted the experts at UW Medicine for tips on how to handle a pesky cold.

Home remedies

SEAtoday Wellness-UW Medicine_9.25.2024.gif — A warm cup of tea is soothing, and having it with lemon and honey adds natural benefits.
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GIF by SEAtoday team

Did you know? Home remedies have chemicals and constituents that stimulate the immune system. Bookmark these home remedies for the next time you’re coming down with something:

Alleviate sinus congestion with a humidifier, neti pot, or even a hot shower.
Stay hydrated to help keep your throat moist and thin mucus.
Gargle warm saltwater to soothe a sore throat while reducing inflammation.
And more

Over-the-counter medicine

Okay, you’ve tried it all — but you still need relief, fast. If you want to opt for an OTC medicine, nasal sprays are your best bet (though they should only be used for a few days).

An FDA panel recently concluded that phenylephrine (a popular over-the-counter decongestant found in many cold and allergy capsules and syrups) is no better than a placebo when taken orally.

See a doctor

UW Medicine doctors meeting with a patient — Your doctor can help get to the bottom of your symptoms and rule out any other condition you might be fighting.
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Photo provided by UW Medicine

If your symptoms don’t improve (or if you start to feel worse) after ten days, it’s time to call in the reinforcements. Scheduling an appointment with your doctor can help rule out any other condition you might be fighting.

Pro tip: Getting your flu shot now can save you from uncomfortable symptoms later.

News Notes

Health

Do you have a primary care provider? As your everyday health partner, they should be your first point of contact for all your health concerns. Check out these four tips for finding a primary care doctor.

Wellness

While the popularity of health tracking and wearable devices continues to grow, a new trend is rising: tracking your blood sugar. Here’s why people without diabetes are using glucose monitors.

Eat

Need a midday pick-me-up, Seattle? Before you reach for a second cup of coffee, opt for one of these quick, easy snacks instead. Bonus: Munch on these snack facts, while you’re at it.

Active

It’s time to leave back pain behind. While this is a common discomfort, there are ways to get relief. Bookmark these four tips to relieve back pain.

Health

While certain levels of stress can be unavoidable, chronic stress is caused by external factors and persists for a long time. Check out six ways to cope with chronic stress.

Fact or Fiction

Salt can be part of a healthy diet if consumed in moderation. Fact or fiction? Find out.

Health

Let’s be honest — when you’re feeling under the weather, the last thing you want to do is leave the house and sit in a crowded waiting room. Enter: UW Medicine Virtual Primary Care, offering convenient, accessible, and virtual same-day primary care services. Learn more.

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