Antibiotics Are Not Effective for a Cold

New CDC guidelines state that antibiotics should only be used for respiratory problems if one has strep or pneumonia.  All other respiratory infections are viral.  Viral infections can cause coughs, sinusitis, flu and bronchitis and last 3-4 weeks.  At the Riverwalk Natural Health Clinic we offer a walk in Cold and Flu clinic where we do an exam of your sinuses, ears, throat and lungs and mix up the appropriate anti-viral and antibacterial herbal tincture or homeopathic remedy.  Our treatments can eliminate a cold or flu within 24-48 hours.  No need to miss work or spread your cold to your family and co-workers. Were open Monday thru Friday 9 am to 6 pm.  For an appointment call 970-926-7606.

Getting ready for Cold & Flu Season

Getting Ready for this Cold & Flu Season

The cold and flu season is currently upon us.  In fact, it started early this year with the entrovirus in our schools. Ninety five percent of the colds are due to viral infections.  This means that antibiotics do not work for colds.  Antibiotics only work for bacterial infections and not viruses.  Since we live in an area where tourists come from all over the world we get many different types of viral infections. I have been living in the Vail Valley for seventeen years and it appears that every year these viral infections continue to get worse.  Many people are getting colds that last for three weeks and there still going to work or school and exposing others. So how can you get your immune system ready to protect you this season.

First make sure your taking a good multiple vitamin which contains the antioxidants Vitamin A, C, D, Selenium.  This antioxidants protect our immune system from viruses, bacterial and chemicals in our environment.  Many people are deficient in vitamin D this is why it is important to get a blood test to make sure your not deficient.  Vitamin D prevents colds and flu, as well as breast cancer, prostate cancer, allergies, asthma and dementia.  

Many people are also deficient in probiotics.  Probiotics can also prevent us from viral, bacterial and parasite infections. Not all probiotics are good these should be refrigerated. 

Make sure you wash your hands after touching areas like door handles, phones, pens, computers where many other people are working. Keep from shaking hands with a lot of people. 

Get eight hours of sleep a night.  

Exercise 1 hour 5 times a week.  People in our community tend to do too much exercise which can actually deplete your immune system. 

Eat healthy at least 5-12 veggies a day and protein with each meal. Alcohol in moderation 2 drinks no more that 3 x a week. Take sugar and fructose out of your diet.  These foods are responsible for inflamation in the body.   

If you start feeling a cold or flu coming on immediately start taking antiviral herbs such as echincea, garlic, ginger, osha, astragalus etc These are the strongest in tincture form.  These can get rid of a cold within 24 to 48 hours.  

Hot teas such as ginger, lemon and honey.  I have put together a cold/flu tea that works very well. 

Chicken or miso soup with ginger and garlic. 

Eliminate dairy type foods this will only produce more mucous and keep the cold going.

Neti pots can help especially if you ge a lot of sinus infections. 

Recommended products from the Riverwalk Natural Health Pharmacy to have on hand for when you get a cold this season.

Our Cold/Flu tea special formula designed by Dr. Wiancek really breaks up mucous.

Sinus tincture is both anti-viral & anti-bacterial.

Cough tincture Great for dry & mucous forming coughs.

Children’s Glycerite an antiviral & antibacterial formula for kids.

Anti-viral herbal combinations most colds are viral not bacterial.

Organic Black Elderberry syrup Best used to prevent colds and the flu.  Kids love it.

Homeopathic influenzinum can be used as a preventive or when you get the flu.

Optimal Health multiple vitamin designed by Dr. Wiancek to keep your immune system strong includes all your antioxidants such as Vitamin a, C, D, E and selenium. 

Ultrabalance probiotic our immune system is in our gut studies show that probiotics help prevent flu’s and colds.

I offer a cold/flu clinic where I do an exam looking at your sinuses, throat, ears and listening to your lungs.  And then I put together a specific antiviral tincture related to your condition.  The key is coming in as soon as you get sick. There is no need to be sick for three weeks this winter.  

For more information please call or e-mail Dr. Wiancek at the Riverwalk Natural Health Clinic 970-926-7606. 

Wiancek@healthref.com or www.healthref.com. Follow us on our blog for the latest research in natural medicine http://riverwalknaturalhealth.blogspot.com/. 

Cold & Flu Clinic

Dr. Wiancek prescribes antiviral and anti-bacterial herbs to boost the immune system and prevent cold.                                                                           Schedule an appointment today! 970-926-7606 

Feel a cold coming on? 

COME IN FOR OUR 

COMPREHENSIVE, ALL NATURAL

COLD AND FLU CLINIC

30 minute sessions.  Walk-ins Welcome!

Feature Article in SneakPEAK "Beware of the Bug"

"As the nation enters one of the worst flu seasons in years, high-alpine locals and visitors need weapons to fight back

An aromatic tea of herbs and spices readily found in your pantry can ward off the worst of flu symptoms"

This article covers Cold vs Flu symptoms, a recipe for a homemade cold and flu tea, and vital information for locals.

Please follow the Link here:

http://sneakpeakvail.com/Features/tabid/100/post/beware-of-the-bug/Default.aspx

How to Stave off Colds, Flus, and Infections

Steps You can Take to Boost Your Immunity

When you first feel yourself becoming sick, there are things you can do to avoid becoming ill or to shorten the duration of illness. These suggestions are especially helpful if you do them as early as possible. They will help you fend off flus, colds, or minor infections. 90% of common colds are due to viral infections. Please note that antibiotics are not effective against viruses. The reason they are prescribed is when a secondary bacterial infection is likely or is dangerous to a particular patient. Call a physician if your symptoms become severe. 

Eat Very Lightly or Not at All 

With most illnesses, the appetite is diminished. This is a natural response of the body. Energy is needed to fight off the "bug" and the body doesn't have energy to process food. Give your digestive tract a rest!

Get Rest as Soon as Possible

Many people ignore the early warning signs of illness and keep working until they "drop". you will take longer to heal if you allow the illness to get a foothold. If you feel a sore throat, headache, congestion, etc., coming on, take it easy. If possible, take a day off from work. This may prevent you from having to take three days off later on.

Drink Plenty of Fluids

This standard advice is good advice. You can clear the toxins from a "bug" out of your system with large amounts of filtered water and herb teas. Fruit juices are not good choices as they have a high concentration of sugars in them. If you do choose to drink juices, dilute them by using half (filtered) water and half juice.

Take Immunity-Boosting Supplements & Homeopathics

- Vitamin C: Take 500 mg every 3-4 hours with a small amount of food. Cut back on dosage if stools become loose or if you experience gas and cramping.

- Vitamin A: Take 10,000 IU 3 times daily. Women who are pregnant should not take high doses of vitamin A as the fetus can be affected. Consult your physician for recommended dosages and signs of toxicity.

- Zinc: Take 30-50mg once daily with small amount of food. This can be continued for 1-2 weeks without depleting copper stores.

- Bioflavanois: Take 1 gram per day.

- Oscillococcinum: Homeopathic remedy. Take 6 pellets every 6 hours at the first onset of flu or cold symptoms. take away from food.

*These are adult dosages. Consult your physician regarding dosages for infants and children or if you have other conditions affecting your health.

Take Immunity-Enhancing Herbs

Dosages depend on the form in which they are taken (tincture, raw plant, solid extract, etc.). For teas (3-5 sups/day), tinctures (30 drops 4x/day), or in freeze-dried capsules (2 capsules 4x/day). 

- Astragalus

- Echinacea purperea ( purple cone flower )

- Glycyrrhiza glabra ( Licorice )

- Hydrastis canadensis ( Goldenseal ) *also considered to have anti-microbial properties which can affect against bacterial infections

- Commiphora Myrrh ( Myrrh )

- Trifolium praetens ( Red Clover )

- Ligusticum ( Osha )

Home Hydrotherapy Treatment

Hot Foot Bath: Soak feet in hot water while wrapped in a warm wool blanket. Put a cold sloth on your head and relax while you sit in a comfortable position for 10-15 minutes. Take care to avoid getting chilled after this treatment.

Throat or Chest Compress

Warm the throat or chest with a warm washcloth or hot shower. Dry skin thoroughly and apply a thin cotton wrap (to throat) or thin cotton t-shirt (to chest) that has been soaked in cold water and wrung out. Cover with wool scarf or sweater and go to bed this way. By morning, coverings with be dry- this treatment increases circulation and increases while blood cell activity.

Prevention

Contamination studies have demonstrated that viral infections are spread much more readily by direct contact than through air. Cleanliness tips to help avoid contamination or virus include not sharing utensils, frequent hand washing and laundering of clothing or bedding (especially for children sharing rooms).

Colds and Flu information for Adults & Children

Reducing your susceptibility

Frequent hand washing is very important as hand contact is a primary route of virus spreading. Avoid shaking hands with people. Also, keep your hands away from your nose, mouth, and eyes as much as possible. Sneeze or cough into your sleeve- not your hand.

Keep your stress levels as low as possible. Carefully consider the commitments you make to keep your schedule manageable. Get a sufficient amount of sleep at night and a regular to-bed and wake-up schedule.

Reduce/avoid smoking, alcohol  and unhealthy diet. Reduce/avoid sugar, white flour and other refined carbohydrates as much as possible. These lower your immune system function. If possible, limit the amount of time spent around sick people. Also, If sick- stay home so you don't infect others.

Do's & Don'ts if you get cold or flu symptoms

In general, don't use antibiotics for viral illnesses.

Antibiotics kill bacteria, not viruses. Overuse creates bacterial resistance. 

Do see a doctor if a fever is over 102, or if the following is present- ear pain, significant sinus pain, green nasal discharge, highly swollen lymph glands, persistent neck stiffness, shortness of breath or persistent uncomfortable cough, or if you are coughing up yellow or green mucus.

80%-90% of respiratory illnesses in otherwise healthy adults during the flu season are not due to influenza (flu) viruses.

Cold or Flu Treatment                     

A slight or mild fever is useful. It is a way for your body to fight off a viral infection. In general, don't suppress it with Tylenol (acetaminophen), Aspirin, or Ibuprofen (Advil), unless you need these products to manage other symptoms,  or if the fever becomes high. High fevers- especially if rapidly rising, require medical advice. Drink plenty of water if fever symptoms are present.

Note: Don't use aspirin to treat children's fevers anytime as there is an infrequent but serious syndrome that can occur- only use Tylenol if required.        

Naturopathic Physicians

Naturopathic Physicians have many support options for cold and flu symptoms. these include products which boost your immune system function. If these are taken at the earliest onset of symptoms, the episode may be completely avoided. 

Otherwise, these products can reduce the duration and severity of symptoms. There are also alternatives to drug store items- most of which just suppress (block) symptoms for a short term. 

Naturopathic products can provide symptom relief AND help the body heal. young Children in particular should avoid drug store symptoms control products.

Tips on Preventing the Cold & Flu

Flu Season is Upon Us 

There are many ways we can take action to prevent the cold and flu this season.  The key to not getting the flu this year is keeping your immune system in check.  

What’s the difference between the flu and a cold or upper respiratory tract infection?  

The flu symptoms generally start with a fever, chills, body aches and pains.  A cold usually starts with sore throat, cough and/or sinus congestion. A cold is due to a virus 95% of the time and the flu is a virus. Antibiotics do not work for viruses. Some of the best natural defenses for preventing the flu are the following:

• Keep your immune system in check by taking a good multiple vitamin with Vitamin A, Vitamin C,  Vitamin D and Zinc.
• Wash your hands frequently with plain soap and water.  Antibacterial soaps are unnecessary.  In fact, antibacterial soaps make us resistant to antibiotic medications when we really need them.
• Cover your mouth when coughing and sneezing to prevent the spread of the flu.
• Avoid sugar as much as possible.  Sugar depletes our immune system making us more susceptible to colds and flu.
• Get enough sleep. Make sure you get eight hours of sleep a day.  Not enough rest will deplete your immune system.
• Exercise regularly to lower your stress response and build up your immune system. 
• Eat garlic, ginger and onions regularly in your foods.  These foods naturally has anti-viral and antibactial effects.
• Oscillococcinum or Gripp-Heel are homeopathic remedies that can reduce the duration and severity of flu symptoms especially if taken within the first 24 hours of the flu.
• Influenzinum is the homeopathic alternative to the flu shot.
• Other anti-viral herbs that are beneficial on the onset of the cold or flu include astragalus, echinacea, ligusticum, schizandrae and elderberry.
• If you do catch the flu or cold consider not going to work or school to prevent the spread of this virus.  It is best to stay at home until the fever resolves.

Vitamin A works on building up our immune system and zinc has anti-viral effects.  If you are a person who gets the flu regularly you may be Vitamin D deficient. The founder of the Vitamin D Council, Dr. John Cannell first introduced the hypothesis that influenza is merely a symptom of vitamin D deficiency in the paper Epidemic Influenza and Vitamin D, published in the journal Epidemiology and Infection two years ago, followed up with another study published in the Virology Journal last year. The findings were confirmed by a new study -- the largest and most nationally representative of its kind to date -- that involved about 19,000 Americans. It found that people with the lowest blood vitamin D levels reported having significantly more recent colds or cases of the flu. You may want to consider getting your Vitamin D blood levels checked.

A  study written in the August issue of Pediatrics 2009 states that probiotics such as acidophilus and bifidobacterium taken daily can reduce the incidence of fevers by up to seventy percent, coughs and sinusitis by sixty percent. Probiotics are a great way to prevent both colds and flu in school children and adults.  Probiotics build up our immune system through our intestinal tract. 

Elderberry syrup has been shown to build up our immune system and prevent the flu.  A sugar free elderberry extract is recommended. 

At the Natural Pharmacy we carry many products for cold/flu prevention, anti-viral herbs for treating colds and flu’s, teas, cough syrups and drops and immune boosters.  These products are always good to have on hand in the cold and flu season.

Not sure if you have the flu or cold stop by our flu and cold clinic and get assessed and treated quickly so you can get back to feeling better and not spreading this infection to co-workers and family members.

 Dr. Deborah Wiancek  is a Naturopathic Physician who practices at the Riverwalk Natural 

Health Clinic & Natural Pharmacy.  She is a primary care physician specializing in allergies, dermatology, gastrointestinal problems, gynecology, menopause, pediatrics and chronic disease. 

Phone 970-926-7606 e-mail Wiancek@healthref.com.

Flu Vaccines: Not Quite as Effective as the CDC Has Claimed

According to researchers at the University of Minnesota, the efficacy of flu vaccinations is lower than what was previously thought. Dr. Michael Osterhold, director of the University's Center for Infectious Disease Researcher and Policy, pointed out that the flu vaccine provides protection to approximately 59% of adults under 65. To compare, these vaccines were estimated to have an efficacy rate of 70-90% on the official Centers for Disease Control website.

The goal of the study was to find out more definitively how well the flu vaccine really worked. Tom Skinner, spokesman for the CDC, stated “What is clear about this study is that we simply need better and more effective flu vaccines.” 

Dr. Shana McQueen

Source:  

http://www.mndaily.com/2011/10/26/u-study-flu-shots-protect-less-60-percent-adults#.TqlxXMXziaQ.facebook

Is it a cold or the flu?

How do you know if it’s a cold or the flu?  Generally the flu causes a high fever with severe muscle aches and a dry severe cough.  Colds tend to be milder than the flu but can turn into a sinus infection or bronchitis if not dealt with early.  Please refer to the chart below. 

Cold vs Flu symptoms:                  Cold                              Flu

Fever                                                  rare/mild                                 high 102º or higher

Chills                                                   rare                                         yes

Headache                                          rare                                         yes

Muscle aches                                    mild                                         severe

Fatigue                                               mild                                         long lasting/extreme

Congested nose/sinuses                 often                                        yes

Runny nose                                        often                                        occasional

Sneezing                                            often                                        occasional

Sore throat                                         often                                        occasional

Cough                                                 mild/hacking                          severe, dry

Ninety percent of all colds are due to viral infections and the flu is also caused by a virus.  And antibiotics do not work for viral illnesses.  Antibiotics kill bacteria, not viruses. Overuse of antibiotics has created bacterial resistance.  So what should you do if you feel a cold coming on? 

Get as much rest as possible – Many people ignore the early signs of illness and keep working until they drop.  You will take longer to heal if you allow the illness to get a foothold.

Drink plenty of Fluids – Herbal teas such as licorice, elder, ginger, mullein and soups such as chicken or miso soup can help clear the bug out of you system.  We formulate a very good Cold & Flu tea that our patients love for winter.

Start taking anti-viral herbs as soon as possible.  A combination is the best.  These should include Echinacea, Astragalus, Licorice, Osha, Schisandra, Elderberry and Goldenseal.  Zinc (30 mg/day) has been shown to reduce the duration of a cold. The homeopathic remedy Oscillococcinum can work very well for shortening your flu symptoms if taken the first 24 to 48 hrs of the onset of the flu.  

How can you reduce your susceptibility of getting a cold or flu? 

Wash your hands frequently.  As hand contact is a primary route of virus spreading.  Avoid shaking hands with people.  Also, keep your hands away from your nose, mouth and eyes as much as possible. 

Keep your stress levels as low as possible.  Get sufficient rest and sleep.

Reduce and avoid smoking, alcohol and an unhealthy diet.  Cut back on sugar, white flour and refined carbohydrates as much as possible.

Take a good multiple vitamin with the antioxidants vitamin A, C, E and selenium.  Vitamin D and probiotics has been shown to be very effective in preventing the flu and building up one’s immune system.  

If possible limit the amount of time around sick people another reason to stay home when you’re sick to avoid infecting others. 

Dr. Deborah Wiancek is a naturopathic physician specializing in natural medicine at the Riverwalk Natural Health Clinic in Edwards, CO.  She can be reached at 970-926-7606, Wiancek@healthref.com or www.healthref.com.