We are all well aware of the fact that aging changes our bodies. But it doesn't mean we have to live sedentary lifestyles and turn our backs on being active. In fact, getting older doesn't mean we can't try new things to get back into (or stay in) shape. And there are a few different activities that will directly contribute to your physical well-being - such as yoga, tai-chi, or going for a simple stroll around the neighborhood. Both yoga and tai chi will help you stay flexible as well as help your balance. They both incorporate healthy stretches that will help to invigorate you at the beginning of the day and help to relax you at the end of the day.
Some people find that mobility becomes an issue as they get older. But there are definitely ways to keep yourself up and moving. Sports such as swimming or water aerobics are two great choices for cardiovascular activities. Join a class to stay consistent or trying exercising with a buddy on a regular basis. And be sure to keep the mind engages. Getting older doesn't mean giving up hobbies. In fact, now is the perfect time to start a new one.
If you are starting a completely new exercise venture that you haven't tried before, it may be a good idea to get some guidance. This may mean signing up for a wellness coach, someone who is knowledgeable about helping others reach their full potential and not get hurt during the process.
Getting back into physical activity after an injury or illness might seem difficult. But it can be done, especially with the help of physical therapy. A physical therapist will guide you toward utilizing the correct strength exercises and balance improvement activities, while giving you the support you need as you work through the recovery process. The important thing is to take it slow and steady.
Aging doesn't mean living a sedentary lifestyle. There are still plenty of activities to participate in. Now is the perfect time to take action and go do things you enjoy. See if you can get friends and family to join you. This will help make all of you accountable and stay on track. And who doesn't need help like that once in a while? It may even be fun to start a little competition - that will make your exercise routine even more interesting!
A blog with information to help inspire action that will improve health.
Burns
Burns are labeled in three major classifications, such as first degree, second degree and third degree. Examples of a first degree burn is what people may get after spending time in the sun, especially without wearing sunscreen. The skin is usually red and it also may be painful or sensitive to the touch. The sun's rays are very strong and a sunburn can happen in a very short time or even on cloudy days. That's why wearing sunscreen is always a good idea - especially for babies and children so that permanent damage doesn't occur. Treatment for this level includes aloe and a cool water compress.
A second degree burn affects the top layer as well as the second layer of the skin. These are often painful and red. They will often lead to blistering. Unfortunately, the incidence for infection is higher. There is usually significant pain and swelling to the affected area. It is often a good idea to get to the doctors office or the hospital for these types of cases to make sure the damage hasn't penetrated to the lower levels and to ensure proper treatment. This is particularly true if the groin, face, hands, or feet are affected. These areas may have a longer healing time.
The most serious level is a third degree burn. These are extremely severe and are usually the result of fire. These affect all the dermal layers and often affect the sensory and nervous system. The affected areas are usually never the same due to scar tissue forming. They generally require extensive treatment in the hospital, especially to keep infection from occurring.
One of the most common rooms in the house where burns occur is the kitchen. There are always safety and prevention measures that should be exercised, especially while cooking and while there are children around. Never leave pots and pans unattended, always use care when handling hot dishes, and always pay attention to children. Another good idea for every family is to practice fire drills and what to do in the event of an emergency. Doing so can help save a life as well as minimize the risk of many other injuries, including burns.
A second degree burn affects the top layer as well as the second layer of the skin. These are often painful and red. They will often lead to blistering. Unfortunately, the incidence for infection is higher. There is usually significant pain and swelling to the affected area. It is often a good idea to get to the doctors office or the hospital for these types of cases to make sure the damage hasn't penetrated to the lower levels and to ensure proper treatment. This is particularly true if the groin, face, hands, or feet are affected. These areas may have a longer healing time.The most serious level is a third degree burn. These are extremely severe and are usually the result of fire. These affect all the dermal layers and often affect the sensory and nervous system. The affected areas are usually never the same due to scar tissue forming. They generally require extensive treatment in the hospital, especially to keep infection from occurring.
One of the most common rooms in the house where burns occur is the kitchen. There are always safety and prevention measures that should be exercised, especially while cooking and while there are children around. Never leave pots and pans unattended, always use care when handling hot dishes, and always pay attention to children. Another good idea for every family is to practice fire drills and what to do in the event of an emergency. Doing so can help save a life as well as minimize the risk of many other injuries, including burns.
Early Childhood Obesity
Early childhood obesity is an epidemic in the United States. It can lead to a number of illnesses and health complications including high blood pressure, joint problems, breathing issues and diabetes. The results of a recent study have found that children who are overweight in kindergarten are more likely to become obese in the 8th grade. The findings also emphasize that building good eating and exercise habits should start as early as possible. After all, there's no going back. And learning good habits to begin with is easier than breaking bad ones, especially regarding food and exercise.
Researchers have found that a child who is overweight and has established early tendencies toward weight gain often stayed overweight through elementary school and junior high. They looked at a number of different factors during the study, including socio-economic backgrounds, sex, and birth weight. What they found is that people in lower income brackets often had a higher incidence of unhealthy habits - and weighed more than people in higher income (and educational brackets).
There are ways to fight off the unhealthy epidemic and turn things around. One of them is for parents to become more informed about nutrition. As role models, parents often set examples for their children. Kids mimic what they see. If parents eat junk food, the children are more likely to do so as well. It stands to reason that if they see healthy choices being made, they will also make those same choices. For that reason, try to stock the refrigerator and pantry with fresh foods such as fruits and vegetables. Avoid foods high in fat and try to stay away from items with a lot of preservatives. Read labels - if you can't pronounce what's in them, do you really want to eat that?
It is up to the older generation to teach the younger generation about diet and physical activity. We need to lead by example. This means getting up off the couch and doing some form of physical activity on a regular basis. Go for walks with your children. Take them to the park, go for bike rides. Encourage them to play sports - and think about what you can do to get into better shape. It can be an extremely rewarding experience and will help both you and your child to decrease the chances of becoming obese.
Researchers have found that a child who is overweight and has established early tendencies toward weight gain often stayed overweight through elementary school and junior high. They looked at a number of different factors during the study, including socio-economic backgrounds, sex, and birth weight. What they found is that people in lower income brackets often had a higher incidence of unhealthy habits - and weighed more than people in higher income (and educational brackets).
There are ways to fight off the unhealthy epidemic and turn things around. One of them is for parents to become more informed about nutrition. As role models, parents often set examples for their children. Kids mimic what they see. If parents eat junk food, the children are more likely to do so as well. It stands to reason that if they see healthy choices being made, they will also make those same choices. For that reason, try to stock the refrigerator and pantry with fresh foods such as fruits and vegetables. Avoid foods high in fat and try to stay away from items with a lot of preservatives. Read labels - if you can't pronounce what's in them, do you really want to eat that?
It is up to the older generation to teach the younger generation about diet and physical activity. We need to lead by example. This means getting up off the couch and doing some form of physical activity on a regular basis. Go for walks with your children. Take them to the park, go for bike rides. Encourage them to play sports - and think about what you can do to get into better shape. It can be an extremely rewarding experience and will help both you and your child to decrease the chances of becoming obese.
Bubonic Plague
When most people hear the words "bubonic plague" they think about the pandemic that occurred in Europe centuries ago that killed approximately 1/2 of the world's population. It is an illness caused by bacteria, specifically Y pestis. It is spread through rodents and to the human population by fleas. Rats are often blamed for the outbreak that spread through Europe, but it can be spread by any type of wild rodents. One of the reasons it was so prevalent and deadly in earlier centuries was due to the lack of medical care and knowledge that we possess today. But that doesn't mean it still can't be deadly in modern times.
Recently scientists have used DNA taken from victims who succumbed to the pandemic centuries ago. They warned that what happened in earlier times could easily happen again. This may occur due to mutations in the strains that have the capacity to become resistant to anti-biotic treatment. Right now, those strains don't exist and the illness can be treated with antibiotics. But if the mutations do occur, death can occur very quickly and the disease can be spread with alarming intensity and speed, particularly in highly populated areas.
Although a possible outbreak is unlikely, scientists say that paying attention to the rodent population is one way to predict and possibly prevent a possible occurrence. For example, if rodents in a particular part of the world start to die off very quickly, scientists will need to monitor the situation. Researchers warn that although we live in an age of great medical technology, we are still at risk of catching numerous diseases from animals.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), symptoms appear seven to ten days following infection. The most telling sign is the swelling of a lymph node, particularly near the site of a flea bite. These swellings are called bubos. They are very painful to the touch. Unfortunately, if the bacteria makes its way into the lungs it leads to another serious disease called pneumonic plague. This is also very easily transmitted through humans, usually from the saliva and droplets released by the infected person as they cough. This strain is very difficult to treat, many don't survive the illness unless they are treated very early - and even then there's no guarantee.
Recently scientists have used DNA taken from victims who succumbed to the pandemic centuries ago. They warned that what happened in earlier times could easily happen again. This may occur due to mutations in the strains that have the capacity to become resistant to anti-biotic treatment. Right now, those strains don't exist and the illness can be treated with antibiotics. But if the mutations do occur, death can occur very quickly and the disease can be spread with alarming intensity and speed, particularly in highly populated areas.
Although a possible outbreak is unlikely, scientists say that paying attention to the rodent population is one way to predict and possibly prevent a possible occurrence. For example, if rodents in a particular part of the world start to die off very quickly, scientists will need to monitor the situation. Researchers warn that although we live in an age of great medical technology, we are still at risk of catching numerous diseases from animals.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), symptoms appear seven to ten days following infection. The most telling sign is the swelling of a lymph node, particularly near the site of a flea bite. These swellings are called bubos. They are very painful to the touch. Unfortunately, if the bacteria makes its way into the lungs it leads to another serious disease called pneumonic plague. This is also very easily transmitted through humans, usually from the saliva and droplets released by the infected person as they cough. This strain is very difficult to treat, many don't survive the illness unless they are treated very early - and even then there's no guarantee.
Inner Conflict
As human beings we are often faced with different types of situations that cause us stress. One of the reasons we may feel that way is due to inner conflict. This can be when your heart (and feelings) tell you one thing, but your head (logic) tells you another thing. Or it can happen when you are faced with a dilemma that involves some serious decision making about any number of situations, including a job, family, or a relationship. The point is, everyone has experienced some sort of struggle within themselves during life. After all, it is part of being human and having feelings.
Doubt and fear are two of the biggest challenges we face. For example, let's say you were offered a huge promotion. The job would be lucrative but very involved and time consuming. As a result, you would have to sacrifice time with family and friends. You also may lack the education that is associated with the position but your life experience makes up for that. Your inner self may tell you that you can't handle such a job, creating a little seed of doubt that you aren't right for the position.
Or maybe you're in a relationship that isn't going anywhere but you're afraid to admit it even if you aren't truly happy. Either way, life is too short to waste. It shouldn't be spent awash in feelings of self-doubt or asking yourself "what if?"
Part of the decision making process regarding different dilemmas that crop up into everyone's life may mean taking some alone time. Maybe now is a good time to meditate. Meditation is a superb way to calm your nerves and get a clearer understanding of how to decrease conflict. Try to balance out that internal negativity with some positive thinking. Another method of addressing an issue is to talk about it. An open discussion with family and friends can be valuable. Another great resource is a trusted mentor who can offer an objective point of view.
Sometimes it might be difficult to make a decision because you're afraid that you won't have the resolve or the tenacity to carry through with it. You may be comfortable at your current job (but bored). You may know your current relationship isn't truly satisfying. However, the longer you wrestle with something, the more of a toll it will take on you. Weigh the pros and cons - think with both your heart and your head. And be confident in your abilities to do the right thing for you.
Doubt and fear are two of the biggest challenges we face. For example, let's say you were offered a huge promotion. The job would be lucrative but very involved and time consuming. As a result, you would have to sacrifice time with family and friends. You also may lack the education that is associated with the position but your life experience makes up for that. Your inner self may tell you that you can't handle such a job, creating a little seed of doubt that you aren't right for the position.
Or maybe you're in a relationship that isn't going anywhere but you're afraid to admit it even if you aren't truly happy. Either way, life is too short to waste. It shouldn't be spent awash in feelings of self-doubt or asking yourself "what if?"
Part of the decision making process regarding different dilemmas that crop up into everyone's life may mean taking some alone time. Maybe now is a good time to meditate. Meditation is a superb way to calm your nerves and get a clearer understanding of how to decrease conflict. Try to balance out that internal negativity with some positive thinking. Another method of addressing an issue is to talk about it. An open discussion with family and friends can be valuable. Another great resource is a trusted mentor who can offer an objective point of view.
Sometimes it might be difficult to make a decision because you're afraid that you won't have the resolve or the tenacity to carry through with it. You may be comfortable at your current job (but bored). You may know your current relationship isn't truly satisfying. However, the longer you wrestle with something, the more of a toll it will take on you. Weigh the pros and cons - think with both your heart and your head. And be confident in your abilities to do the right thing for you.
A Clean Physical Appearance
Whether you like it or not, people are often judged based on appearances. And there's overwhelming evidence that supports the theory that a clean physical appearance is more attractive to most people (including potential dates as well as potential employers) than an unkempt, messy appearance. This certainly doesn't mean you have to be a supermodel or have incredibly chiseled abs to get ahead in this world. However, a certain amount of attention to how you look will most likely garner you the positive attention that you look for both professionally and personally.
But what exactly is a "professional look?" For both men and women, it simply means a neat appearance. Men should have shaved faces, or very neatly trimmed facial hair. If you have a beard or a mustache it should be groomed as neatly as possible. And fellows, although shopping may not be your favorite activity, sometimes it is a necessary evil. A few nice pairs of dress pants, wrinkle free shirts, and a polished pair of shoes just might be the ticket to the high paying job you've been aiming for. And if you're going for that interview, by all means take a shower beforehand. Who wants to work with the stinky guy?
Women are well aware of how much a nice appearance matters. They will spend money on a good hair cut as well as products that smell good. And even women who operate on limited budgets know the importance of decent clothes. Again, this isn't about being a supermodel. But the fact of the matter is that people who have a well-groomed appearance will most likely get the job, the promotion, or the date rather than the person who doesn't look as tidy and is going for the same goal.
Although we don't like to admit it, many of us judge others based on appearances. Again, this doesn't mean going on a crazy shopping spree and trying to make yourself into something you're not. All it means is that you should take pride in how you appear in the mirror, because others see that as your way of portraying confidence. And being confident in all types of situations, whether they are professional or social, is never a bad trait to have.
But what exactly is a "professional look?" For both men and women, it simply means a neat appearance. Men should have shaved faces, or very neatly trimmed facial hair. If you have a beard or a mustache it should be groomed as neatly as possible. And fellows, although shopping may not be your favorite activity, sometimes it is a necessary evil. A few nice pairs of dress pants, wrinkle free shirts, and a polished pair of shoes just might be the ticket to the high paying job you've been aiming for. And if you're going for that interview, by all means take a shower beforehand. Who wants to work with the stinky guy?
Women are well aware of how much a nice appearance matters. They will spend money on a good hair cut as well as products that smell good. And even women who operate on limited budgets know the importance of decent clothes. Again, this isn't about being a supermodel. But the fact of the matter is that people who have a well-groomed appearance will most likely get the job, the promotion, or the date rather than the person who doesn't look as tidy and is going for the same goal.
Although we don't like to admit it, many of us judge others based on appearances. Again, this doesn't mean going on a crazy shopping spree and trying to make yourself into something you're not. All it means is that you should take pride in how you appear in the mirror, because others see that as your way of portraying confidence. And being confident in all types of situations, whether they are professional or social, is never a bad trait to have.
Air Pollution Issues
We live in a high tech world filled with modern conveniences. We have mass transportation, including busses, cars, and airplanes that take us wherever we want to go. However, all of this technology and convenience comes with a price - air pollution. The fumes and the chemicals they often emit can do some serious damage to our lungs and our bodies. It is more important than ever to decrease our risk of illnesses related to pollution.
Many people have made it a mission to reduce their carbon footprint on the world. Some people invest in electric cars as a way to reduce their impact on the environment. Others decide to forgo owning an automobile at all. They may rely on their bikes or their own two feet to get around town and to and from work. Many cities in the United States have decided to become more bike friendly by putting bike lanes in on roads and encouraging residents to tool around town on two wheels. These might seem like small advances, but the more people that join the movement the better it is for our environment.
Countries that are primarily industrial are the ones who are responsible for much of the damage to the air and water supplies. This is because of the byproducts that are produced from making any number of products - including paints, machinery, and yes, even technology such as computers and smart phones. One of the most notoriously polluted places in the world is China - the smog there is toxic and can make it difficult for people to catch their breath.
People who have certain medical conditions are affected even more strongly. Conditions such as asthma or other breathing related health issues can make it almost impossible for adequate oxygen intake. Add in smog and particulates from engine exhaust and you have a recipe for disaster.
As more and more people are starting to become personally affected by the toxins circulating in our environment, green technology is becoming more available. Scientists and engineers from around the world are leading the way to find more sustainable energy sources that won't damage the air we breathe. There are new technologies being developed right now that can help decrease the negative effects of pollution so that we can breathe more comfortably - and help to decrease our carbon footprint on the Earth.
Many people have made it a mission to reduce their carbon footprint on the world. Some people invest in electric cars as a way to reduce their impact on the environment. Others decide to forgo owning an automobile at all. They may rely on their bikes or their own two feet to get around town and to and from work. Many cities in the United States have decided to become more bike friendly by putting bike lanes in on roads and encouraging residents to tool around town on two wheels. These might seem like small advances, but the more people that join the movement the better it is for our environment.
Countries that are primarily industrial are the ones who are responsible for much of the damage to the air and water supplies. This is because of the byproducts that are produced from making any number of products - including paints, machinery, and yes, even technology such as computers and smart phones. One of the most notoriously polluted places in the world is China - the smog there is toxic and can make it difficult for people to catch their breath.
People who have certain medical conditions are affected even more strongly. Conditions such as asthma or other breathing related health issues can make it almost impossible for adequate oxygen intake. Add in smog and particulates from engine exhaust and you have a recipe for disaster.
As more and more people are starting to become personally affected by the toxins circulating in our environment, green technology is becoming more available. Scientists and engineers from around the world are leading the way to find more sustainable energy sources that won't damage the air we breathe. There are new technologies being developed right now that can help decrease the negative effects of pollution so that we can breathe more comfortably - and help to decrease our carbon footprint on the Earth.
Help Keep Norovirus Away
A norovirus infection is very similar to the stomach flu. Symptoms include abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Unfortunately, it is also very contagious and can spread to person to person very easily. It is also difficult to get rid of on surfaces. Unlike other types of viruses or germs, it isn't necessarily killed by common cleaning agents. The particles can also float through the air when you flush a toilet. The symptoms then start to manifest within a day or two of being exposed to the virus.
One of the most common ways this illness is transmitted is through food handlers. For example, let's say that you're eating at a restaurant. Your server puts your plates down in front of you. As you move the plates around on the table, you touch the same area that the server's hand was on to carry them - and transmission has occurred. Another reason this is so contagious is because people can transmit it without even being aware they are carrying the virus - it can travel before symptoms start to occur. This is yet another reason to be careful of restaurants that you go out to eat to - make sure they are strict about the rule of making employees wash their hands frequently. This is especially important after going to the bathroom and during all phases of food prep.
A new strain of the virus is called the Sydney strain and it is particularly potent. It can live on your laundry and almost any types of surfaces for a long period of time. Again, regular cleaning products are no match against this. In order to truly disinfect areas, use bleach, chlorine or hydrogen peroxide. And let the cleaners sit for a while before wiping down surfaces. Wash your hands frequently - and be sure to wash under the nails. Use hot water and soap and scrub for at least 30 seconds. Doing so might reduce your chances of getting sick and is well worth the time.
As of right now, there is no vaccine for this virus. And there's no treatment other than rest and fluids. Sometimes it takes a few days to feel normal again, but keep in mind that you can still infect others even after your symptoms have subsided.
One of the most common ways this illness is transmitted is through food handlers. For example, let's say that you're eating at a restaurant. Your server puts your plates down in front of you. As you move the plates around on the table, you touch the same area that the server's hand was on to carry them - and transmission has occurred. Another reason this is so contagious is because people can transmit it without even being aware they are carrying the virus - it can travel before symptoms start to occur. This is yet another reason to be careful of restaurants that you go out to eat to - make sure they are strict about the rule of making employees wash their hands frequently. This is especially important after going to the bathroom and during all phases of food prep.
A new strain of the virus is called the Sydney strain and it is particularly potent. It can live on your laundry and almost any types of surfaces for a long period of time. Again, regular cleaning products are no match against this. In order to truly disinfect areas, use bleach, chlorine or hydrogen peroxide. And let the cleaners sit for a while before wiping down surfaces. Wash your hands frequently - and be sure to wash under the nails. Use hot water and soap and scrub for at least 30 seconds. Doing so might reduce your chances of getting sick and is well worth the time.
As of right now, there is no vaccine for this virus. And there's no treatment other than rest and fluids. Sometimes it takes a few days to feel normal again, but keep in mind that you can still infect others even after your symptoms have subsided.
Don't Spread the Flu This Holiday Season
The holiday season is definitely here - but so is the flu season. The cold and virus season often starts around September or October and really doesn't go away until late spring. And it always seems to get just a little bit worse around the holidays. People are gathering together at office parties, school parties, and family functions. And unfortunately, the germs are spread just as easily as holiday cheer from person to person. The hustle and bustle of the season doesn't help either.
Too many of us are so busy shopping, decorating, working, and gearing up for parties that we don't pay as much attention to our bodies as we should. We lose sleep and often don't eat right. And that's exactly what weakens our immune systems and makes it easier for the germs to attack our bodies. And with the weather being colder and more people are indoors rather than outdoors, the airborne particles from coughs and sneezes makes it even easier for us to get sick. With so many people so close together, one person could potentially infect many others.
One way to avoid getting sick over the holidays is to be smart about who you're around. If you find yourself around someone who is coughing and sneezing or has other symptoms that may be related to a virus, keep your distance as much as possible. Don't touch any surfaces they have touched. In fact, wipe down as many surfaces as you can with anti-bacterial wipes. Use alcohol based hand sanitizer gel. Try stocking up and having multiple bottles in your purse, at your desk, and even in your car is a good idea. Wash your hands in hot water with soap numerous times a day. Good hand washing habits will help avoid the spread of germs.
If you are the one who is feeling under the weather, skip the holiday celebration parties. Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze and wash your hands afterward. When you're sick, your body needs rest and fluids. Don't try to keep up with everything that you think you need to do - let others help you so that you can try to relax. Concentrate on getting better. Keep in mind that alcohol and stress can further lower your immune system - so don't overdo it too much at those parties - even if you're in perfect health.
One way to avoid getting sick over the holidays is to be smart about who you're around. If you find yourself around someone who is coughing and sneezing or has other symptoms that may be related to a virus, keep your distance as much as possible. Don't touch any surfaces they have touched. In fact, wipe down as many surfaces as you can with anti-bacterial wipes. Use alcohol based hand sanitizer gel. Try stocking up and having multiple bottles in your purse, at your desk, and even in your car is a good idea. Wash your hands in hot water with soap numerous times a day. Good hand washing habits will help avoid the spread of germs.
If you are the one who is feeling under the weather, skip the holiday celebration parties. Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze and wash your hands afterward. When you're sick, your body needs rest and fluids. Don't try to keep up with everything that you think you need to do - let others help you so that you can try to relax. Concentrate on getting better. Keep in mind that alcohol and stress can further lower your immune system - so don't overdo it too much at those parties - even if you're in perfect health.
Understanding Respiratory Syncytial Virus
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) causes illnesses and infections that affect the lungs. It also often affects the nose, throat, sinuses, and windpipe - all of which make up the respiratory tract. It is a very common virus - most young children have already had it by the age of two years old. The presence of RSV can be life threatening. This is particularly true for children younger than 2, especially premature babies. This is due to the fact that their immune system isn't very strong yet.
Symptoms of an RSV infection are similar to the common cold. Most people complain of a runny nose, congestion, fever, sore throat, and a cough. Usually people feel better within a week or two. In some cases, it leads to a more serious illness such as pneumonia or bronchitis. Both of those can lead to hospitalizations, even for a normal healthy adult. And for infants, adults over 65, or people with weakened immune systems, the symptoms can be painful and severe. It can cause severe lung infections that impair a person's ability to breathe.
Wintertime is the prime season for RSV infections. Other risk factors include being exposed to heavy cigarette smoke and living in an area with high amounts of air pollution. It is also a common occurrence in daycares and schools, as it is very easy to spread. If you or a loved one develop symptoms, the correct diagnosis is very important. Going to the doctor and getting some tests might be a good idea. Doctors will often listen to your lungs to check for signs of pneumonia or respiratory distress. They may also perform blood tests or order an x-ray.
Avoiding others by not going to work or school and getting plenty of rest is the best way to treat RSV - or any illness. You may also minimize your risk of getting sick by washing hands often. Cover sneezes and coughs with your elbow or a tissue, as RSV germs can affect others through airborne particles as well as surface areas. Clean and disinfect surfaces regularly, especially during the winter months or if someone in your home or office has developed symptoms that are consistent with RSV. And of course, avoid close contact with sick people whenever possible - respiratory syncytial virus is extremely infectious.
Symptoms of an RSV infection are similar to the common cold. Most people complain of a runny nose, congestion, fever, sore throat, and a cough. Usually people feel better within a week or two. In some cases, it leads to a more serious illness such as pneumonia or bronchitis. Both of those can lead to hospitalizations, even for a normal healthy adult. And for infants, adults over 65, or people with weakened immune systems, the symptoms can be painful and severe. It can cause severe lung infections that impair a person's ability to breathe.
Wintertime is the prime season for RSV infections. Other risk factors include being exposed to heavy cigarette smoke and living in an area with high amounts of air pollution. It is also a common occurrence in daycares and schools, as it is very easy to spread. If you or a loved one develop symptoms, the correct diagnosis is very important. Going to the doctor and getting some tests might be a good idea. Doctors will often listen to your lungs to check for signs of pneumonia or respiratory distress. They may also perform blood tests or order an x-ray.
Avoiding others by not going to work or school and getting plenty of rest is the best way to treat RSV - or any illness. You may also minimize your risk of getting sick by washing hands often. Cover sneezes and coughs with your elbow or a tissue, as RSV germs can affect others through airborne particles as well as surface areas. Clean and disinfect surfaces regularly, especially during the winter months or if someone in your home or office has developed symptoms that are consistent with RSV. And of course, avoid close contact with sick people whenever possible - respiratory syncytial virus is extremely infectious.
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