Its Cold and Flu season in Flower Mound - are you ready?

Flu is one of those inevitable things that goes around every year with some 10% to 20% of Americans catching the Flu. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccination each year. Influenza activity in Flower Mound has been low so far this season, but it is rising. Flu usually start to peak here in January or February, making right now a good time to get a flu vaccine.

Bridlewood Family Healthcare provides Flower Mound residents with convenient access to flu (influenza) shots and flu mist. Most patients can be seen in only minutes and on their way again with better protection against the flu. If you do have the common cold and not the Flu, then some combination of over-the-counter medicines which might include Antihistamines, Decongestants, or infrequently a Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine might be what you need. If you suspect the Flu the treatment could include antiviral medicines and you should strongly consider seeing the doctor. The Flu can turn ugly becoming bronchitis or pneumonia which can be life threatening.

Is it a Flu or is it a Cold? Symptom The Cold The Flu Fever Rare Usual Headache Rare Common General Aches, Pains Slight Usual Fatigue, Weakness Sometimes Usual Extreme Exhaustion Never Usual Stuffy Nose Common Sometimes Sneezing Common Sometimes Sore Throat Common Sometimes Chest Discomfort, Cough Mild to moderate hacking cough Common; can become severe

Who should get a Flu shot (vaccination)?

The following groups are at higher risk for having medical complications from influenza and should receive the flu shot:

• People 50 years of age and older
• Residents of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities housing anyone of any age with chronic medical conditions
• People with chronic disorders of the lungs or heart, such as asthma, emphysema, chronic bronchitis, or cystic fibrosis
• People who are less able to fight infections because of a disease they are born with; infection with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV); treatment with drugs such as long-term steroids; and/or treatment for cancer with x-rays or drugs
• People who have required regular medical follow-up or hospitalization during the preceding year because of chronic metabolic diseases (including diabetes mellitus), kidney diseases and blood cell diseases such as sickle cell anemia
• Children and teenagers 6 months to 18 years of age on long-term aspirin treatment, who, if they catch influenza, could develop Reye's syndrome which causes coma, liver damage, and death
• Women who will be 6 or more months pregnant or who will have just delivered during the influenza season

In addition, you can take everyday preventive steps like frequent hand washing to decrease your chances of getting the flu. If you are sick with flu, reduce your contact with others and cover your cough to help keep germs from spreading.

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