MediPharm: Conditions: Cold, Flu & Immunity

	HOME \| ENQUIRY

Immunity and The Defense System

Our body is constantly in contact with bacteria, viruses, radiation and pollution. Therefore, we need a strong defense system to protect us from getting ill. A strong and healthy defense system consist of the intact physical defense system (skin and mucous layer) and the healthy immune system.

Common Cold and Flu

A common cold is an infection of upper respiratory tract, which is the nose and throat. Any one of more than 200 viruses can cause a common cold. Influenza is a viral infection that attacks the respiratory system, including the nose, throat, bronchial tubes and lungs. Anyone can get the flu, but young children, older adults, people with weakened immune systems and those with chronic illnesses are especially vulnerable.

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms of a common cold usually appear about 1-3 days after exposure to a cold virus. Initially, the flu may seem like a common cold with a runny nose, sneezing and sore throat. But colds usually develop slowly, whereas the flu tends to come on suddenly. And we usually feel much worse with the flu.

Signs and symptoms of a common cold and flu may include:

Low-grade fever (up to 38.9°C)
Runny or stuffy nose
Itchy or sore throat
Cough
Sneezing
Nasal congestion
Chills and sweats
Body aches or headache
Watery eyes
Mild fatigue
Loss of appetite

The discharge from our nose may become thicker and yellow or green in color as a common cold runs its course.

Risk Factors

The risk of a cold or flu is increased when we are exposed to cold or flu viruses, have an allergic reaction that affects the nasal passages or have a weakened immune system.

Prevention

We can take some precautions to slow the spread of cold or flu viruses by washing our hands often, keeping kitchen and bathroom countertops clean, sneezing and coughing into tissues, not sharing drinking glasses or utensils with other family members, and avoiding close, prolonged contact with anyone who has a cold.

Steps that can help us stay healthy include thorough and frequent hand washing, eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly and avoiding crowds during the flu season.

Consider the Alternatives

Echinacea. Echinacea supplements are popular in Europe and the United States for prevention and treatment of upper respiratory tract infections (URTI). Echinacea purpurea herb is believed to be the most potent echinacea species for this indication. For URTI treatment, numerous human trials have found echinacea to reduce duration and severity, particularly when initiated at the earliest onset of symptoms.
Vitamin C & Zinc. Adequate intakes of vitamin C and zinc are essential for health. These nutrients interact with our immune system by supporting immune responses and by providing antioxidant protection from free radicals produced during the inflammatory response. Both nutrients play important roles in immune function and the modulation of resistance to infectious germs, reducing the risk, severity and duration of infectious diseases. A large number of randomized controlled intervention trials document that adequate intakes of vitamin C and zinc ameliorate symptoms and shorten the duration of respiratory tract infections including the common cold.
Citrus Bioflavonoids. Citrus bioflavonoids are important synergistic phytonutrients for defense system, and for enhanced vitamin C absorption and utilization
Spirulina. A rich plant source of phytonutrients phycocyanin and chlorophyll that helps to strengthen the immune system. It cleanses the body from metabolic wastes.
Probiotics. Probiotics have been shown to enhance activity of the immune cells. Clinical studies have shown that the phagocytic activity was significantly increased after intake of probiotics.

Source: Wintergerst ES, et al. Immune-enhancing role of vitamin C and zinc and effect on clinical conditions. Ann Nutr Metab 2006; 50: 85-94.

Bio-Natural Vitamin E Plus Selenium	Echinacea Plus Spirulina	Hipoten C 500	Hipoten C Plus Advanced Formula
Probio Lact Active Formula	Spirulina	Vitamin C-250 mg	Zinc-Plus