cold

Do You Fear the Wind? ~ A Poem by Hamlin Garland

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Do You Fear the Wind?

Hamlin Garland

Do you fear the force of the wind,
The slash of the rain?
Go face them and fight them,
Be savage again.
Go hungry and cold like the wolf,
Go wade like the crane:
The palms of your hands will thicken,
The skin of your cheek will tan,
You’ll grow ragged and weary and swarthy,
But you’ll walk like a man!

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Health Facts: Is It a Cold or Is It COVID?

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When trying to discern between having a cold and COVID-19, here are two lesser-known but important health facts to consider:

1. Loss of Taste and Smell

  • COVID-19: A sudden and significant loss of taste (ageusia) or smell (anosmia) without nasal congestion is more characteristic of COVID-19 than a common cold. This symptom can occur early in the course of the illness and may even be the only symptom for some people. It’s not typically seen with a common cold, where any loss of smell or taste usually results from nasal congestion.
  • Cold: In a common cold, if there is any loss of smell or taste, it is usually mild and related to nasal congestion or a runny nose. The loss is often partial and improves as the congestion clears.

2. Duration and Onset of Symptoms

  • COVID-19: Symptoms of COVID-19 often develop gradually, over several days, and can last longer than those of a cold. Common symptoms like fever, fatigue, and cough can persist for weeks, and some people experience lingering symptoms, known as “long COVID,” for months.
  • Cold: The common cold typically has a more abrupt onset of symptoms, such as a sore throat, runny nose, and cough, which usually appear suddenly and peak within a few days. Most cold symptoms resolve within a week to 10 days, and the severity of symptoms tends to decrease as the immune system clears the virus.

Recognizing these nuances can help you better differentiate between a cold and COVID-19, especially in the early stages of illness. However, testing remains the most reliable way to confirm whether symptoms are due to COVID-19.

Source: ChatGPT

Is It Healthy for a Dog to Wear a Coat?

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I see lots of folks walking their dogs and some of the dogs are wearing coats. It made me wonder if wearing a coat is a healthy option for a dog or if it is a detriment to the dog’s health. I asked ChatGPT and here’s what they found.

Dog coats can help dogs in cold weather, especially for breeds with short fur or those not accustomed to cold climates. These coats provide an extra layer of insulation, helping to retain body heat and protect the dog from the cold. However, it’s essential to ensure that the coat fits well and is comfortable for the dog. Some dogs, particularly those with thick or long fur, may not need extra insulation and could overheat with a coat. As always, it’s best to consider the specific needs and tolerance of your individual dog.

Today’s Health Tip ~ What Should You Eat with a Cold or Fever?

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Eating the Right Foods will Help You Fight a Cold or Fever

The traditional bowl of chicken soup (or even plain broth) remains the gold standard when it comes to eating while sick, says Dr. Hodes. So, why is chicken soup or broth so good for you when you’re sick? For starters, the liquid-based meals work to prevent dehydration. They’re loaded with nutrients and antioxidants that can help you get well, too. Adding chicken to the soup brings protein and iron to boost your immune system, and any healthy veggies thrown into the pot are … well, just naturally healthy to eat. Plus, soup’s soothing warmth and steam can help ease a sore throat and clear up any mucus. Chicken soup or broth just makes you feel better,” says Dr. Hodes. “Even if you’re not feeling too hungry, some small sips can provide you with both fluid and nutrition in one go.”

Other food and drink to seek out when sick include:

    • Fruits and veggies high in vitamin C, including citrus fruit, strawberries, leafy green, broccoli and potatoes. (Juice can do the trick, too, while also helping to keep you hydrated.)
    • Herbal tea. Hydrating and relaxing!
    • Comfort food. You don’t feel well and you need food. A favorite dish may brighten your mood while also filling your belly.

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Today’s Health Tip ~ Is Chicken Soup Really Good for the Common Cold?

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Chicken Soup is Helps Fight the Common Cold

Modern research has actually shown that chicken soup, more than other hot liquid, increases mucus flow and helps the body rid itself of the cold virus. Chicken is rich in an amino acid called cysteine which helps loosen secretions. This effect is increased by adding spices such as pepper and garlic. Often when people become ill with the cold or flu they lose body fluids and minerals called electrolytes. Potassium loss is of particular concern in dehydration. Parsnips are a very good source of potassium and should always go into chicken soup. So should carrots and onions because of their antioxidant content. 

Source

🍎 Health Hack ~ #5 of 5 Cold Fighting Foods

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Garlic

It’s long been known as a germ fighter. And one study showed garlic supplements may help prevent colds when taken daily. But more research needs to be done to figure out its real effects. It does have nutrients, and in food form it can also help spice up your meals when a stuffy nose makes everything taste bland.

WebMd

🍎 Health Hack #3 of 5 Cold Fighting Foods

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Germ Fighters

Kale, broccoli, cranberries, green tea, red onions, blueberries: What do these have in common? All have an antioxidant called quercetin that may help you fight the common cold. The research here is pretty new, but they may be on to something.

WebMd

🍎 Health Hack ~ Stuffy Nose?

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It can be difficult to sleep with a stuffy nose and cough. Try these tips to breathe easier and have a better night’s sleep:

Use an extra pillow to prop up your head and ease sinus pressure.

Sleep with a humidifier or vaporizer in the room.

Take a hot bath or shower before bed.

Healthline.com

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