Summer colds are like common colds that happen during the summer. But why do they feel worse? To break it down, even though colds are virus-based, some viruses that cause colds are more prone to warmer weather; hence, making them summer colds.

As the climate shifts, so does the viral landscape. This shift introduces enteroviruses into the mix. They’re a group of viruses that usually cause mild infectious illnesses similar to that of the common cold, and often cause these infections during the summer and fall seasons. 

The various strains and versions of enteroviruses cause multiple symptoms, some of which are uncommon for summer colds, such as sudden fever, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. 

Common Symptoms of Summer Colds

• Pressure in the sinuses or head

• Runny nose

• Sneezing

• Coughing

• Congestion

• Body and muscle aches

• Sore throat

• Low energy 

Alleviating Symptoms

Although there aren’t any cures for colds, there are ways to alleviate the symptoms: 

• Drink plenty of fluids, mostly water. Stay away from drinks that can cause dehydration, like coffee or energy drinks. 

• Rest, rest, and more rest. Getting lots of rest is very important. Allowing yourself to rest during this time allows the body to heal and recuperate faster. 

• Cough medicine/pain relievers/fever reducers

• Decongestants 

• Humidifier to help with coughing and to reduce air dryness 

Please note that antibiotics do not treat colds. This is because antibiotics only treat bacterial infections, not viral ones, like colds. 

Ways To Prevent Summer Colds

There may not be a cure for colds, yet you can still prevent yourself from catching one by:

• Frequently wash your hands

• Get plenty of sleep to strengthen your immune system

• Eat well-balanced meals

• Remain well-hydrated 

• As much as possible, avoid contact with those who are sick

Conclusion

All in all, colds are not fun in any season. If you do catch a summer cold, know that there are ways to alleviate the symptoms. 

Summer colds typically last a few days up to a week. But if you develop more concerning symptoms, take the time to speak to your healthcare provider, drop by one of our 10 locations, or click here to schedule a Telemedicine appointment.

The post Summer Colds: Why Are They So Bad? appeared first on Quick Med Care.

First and foremost, taking the proper precautions to limit the lifespan of this pandemic doesn’t have to be political. These precautions are vital if we want to continue to keep our local businesses open to support our community.

On June 26th, the governor had to close bars due to poor compliance of some of our folks. I believe this governor is a very good supporter of individual liberty, but we cannot live in a selfish bubble where life is all about one’s self.

We are surrounded by other human beings and it’s imperative that we take a selfless approach to the health of our entire community. Our actions, whether positive or negative, will come back to affect all of us.

By refusing to take basic precautions, we are indirectly contributing to a premature loss of life that can be easily avoided. I personally value life and anyone it includes: whether they are unborn or alive, old, young, white, black, brown – even pets and animals.

Citrus county is the second oldest county in the country in terms of average age. These folks are at a high risk of dying of this disease, not to mention many younger folks who have undiagnosed immune problems.

If we don’t care for the vulnerable folks in our community, who will? Please don’t lose our humanity over politics!! We can work together to overcome this pandemic by wearing a mask, practicing social distancing, and being vigilant about washing our hands.

This is not a political issue – it’s a human issue.

Dr. Dacelin St. Martin is a triple board certified physician in adult internal medicine, pediatrics, and sleep medicine. He is the medical director of Quick Care Med.

The post Thoughts from Dr. Dacelin St. Martin on the Importance of Selflessness appeared first on Quick Med Care.

The Science of Soap

Most viruses have an outer layer made up of lipids, more commonly known as fat. Water alone tends to wick off the fat, but soap will dissolve it. Soap and alcohol are great for dissolving that fatty outer layer. Think of them as the superheroes of the germ world.

Germs: The Struggle is Real

It comes down to how soap molecules are formed. One end bonds with water, and the tail end rejects it, seeking out oil and fatty-like tissue. Like a magnet, the tail tries to push away from the water and attaches itself to the fatty outer layer of the virus, trying to pry itself into it like a spearhead. Once the virus is broken open, it spills into the soapy water and dies.

Now, who knew there was so much drama involved in washing your hands?

The Science of Scrubbing

Water and scrubbing are important because they cause the sudsy bubbles to form, which is what causes the bacteria, viruses and other germs to attach themselves to the suds. Warm water bubbles and foams quicker than cold. While you can use cold water, you’ll need to wash for about 15 more seconds.

Washing for 20 seconds (with warm water, 30-35 seconds with cold) allows for this germ-obliteration to take place. Building up bubbles and washing every surface of your hands, trapping all germs in the soap molecules. Then as you rinse, the foam, along with bacteria and viruses, are washed away down the drain.

Now that you have the science behind hand washing down pat, you can understand how important it can be to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Be mindful of what you touch and wash your hands often. It’s a tried-and-true way to stop the spread of this horrific virus.

The post Why Soap and Water Defeat the Coronavirus appeared first on Quick Med Care.

Steps on how to wash your hands

First, wet your hands under running water and apply soap. Then scrub your hands together for about 20 seconds; nearly as much time it takes to sing “Happy Birthday” twice. Don’t forget to scrub between your fingers and under your fingernails. Germs like to hide in those areas! After 20 seconds, rinse your hands thoroughly and dry using a clean towel.

The when of Handwashing 

Knowing when to wash your hands is equally as important as knowing how. Wash your hands before eating or preparing food and after using the restroom, handling pets, caring for ill people and sneezing, coughing, or blowing your nose. While this list isn’t all-inclusive, this should give you a good idea of critical times to wash your hands.

Soap and water over hand sanitizer 

If you think “Handwashing takes too long. I’ll just use hand sanitizer,” it is essential to remember that sanitizer does not kill all types of germs. If sanitizer is your only option, make sure that it has at least 60% alcohol. This is easy to check by looking at the label on the back of the sanitizer. Rub your hands together until all of the sanitizers have dried, which should take about 20 seconds.

By keeping these few things in mind, you’ll be on your way to preventing the spread of the Coronavirus and other germs! If you do find yourself showing symptoms, and need a provider’s care, set up a Telemedicine appointment to be seen from home.

The post Stay Healthy, Wash your Hands appeared first on Quick Med Care.