With the increase in upper respiratory illnesses, it helps to be able to identify the difference between some of the most common ones this winter!

Check your (or your family member’s) symptoms periodically and decide when and whether you need to visit a physician or take over-the-counter medication.

Some of the below help towards a speedy recovery

1. BRAT diet – B – Banana/Bread, R – Rice (mashed), A – Apples / applesauce, T – Tea (warm or hot). Ensure you stock up on these and periodically eat these for 3-4 days till you get better!
2. Orange juice – Plenty of Vitamin C in the form of orange juice or fresh oranges helps.
3. Apples – While one may not feel like biting into an apple, slicing them into smaller pieces and chewing on them helps!
4. Gargling – Gargling with warm water (with salt) helps soothe sore throat symptoms
5. Sleep – Getting some good bed rest and good sleep (as much as you can) helps our body get the much needed rest to fight off the infections! Remember, sleep is the best medicine.
6. Soups – Tomato soup, chicken noodle soup are usually the most preferred during recovery. Stock up on these and heat it up and drink it warm/hot.
7. Medication – If you are prescribed medication, please eat (at least a bit) and have your medication. Setting an alarm and waking up to have your medicines makes sense. If you are using over-the-counter medicines, have it at periodic intervals (preferably after a meal).

Let your close friends and family know that you are not well, and do not shy away from asking for help!

One needs plenty of fluids, good rest & sleep, and foods with Vitamin C to help a speedy recovery!

Stay healthy! Stay safe!

And if you have not yet had your flu shot, it may be time to get one!