Each year in the U.S., between 5 and 20 percent of people get the seasonal flu. On average, it kills about 36,000 Americans each year. Probably more than most years, we're hearing a great deal about the flu, especially the H1N1 virus. Good news though just in the last day or so, the latest research shows the severity of H1N1 should now equal a moderate year of seasonal flu.
The research is very different from the reports calling for one of the worst years, just a few weeks ago. So, how can you tell if you contracted the flu or just a bad cold? And, how can you make sense of the multiple over-the-counter medicines available?
Cold Symptoms
Runny nose, sore throat, sneezing, coughing and mild aches.
Flu Symptoms
Fever, sore throat, runny nose, cough, head and body aches, chills and fatigue.
You need to check with your doctor to confirm whether you have the flu or a cold. Tests are the only way to know if you're suffering from the flu.
If you have a cold, there are so many over-the-counter medicines to choose from. Which ones work the best? Click here for a full article from Consumer Reports rating Over-The-Counter remedies.
http://www.consumerreports.org/health/prescription-drugs/best-drugs-for-what-ails-you/overview/best-drugs-ov.htm
As with any medical topic, check with your doctor to make sure something is right for you.
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