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Common Cold: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

the common cold
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You might have the common cold if you have these symptoms: a runny nose, sneezing, a cough, body aches, and a fever. The common cold is a virus that is spread through the air, and it can be very contagious. If you think you might have the common cold, it is important to see a doctor so that you can get the proper treatment. There are many over-the-counter cold medicines that can help to relieve your symptoms, but it is important to see a doctor if your symptoms are severe.

Sore throat is often one of the first signs of the common cold

If you're feeling a little scratchy in your throat, it might be the first sign of a cold. But don't worry, there are plenty of things you can do to ease the discomfort. Here are a few tips to help you get through a cold with a sore throat:

1. Drink plenty of fluids. This will help keep your throat lubricated and help thin out mucus. 2. Gargle with warm salt water. This can help reduce swelling and help kill bacteria. 3. Suck on lozenges or hard candy. This can help soothe your throat and keep your saliva flowing. 4. Drink warm beverages. This can help ease congestion and soothe your throat. 5. Rest your voice. Avoid talking or singing for extended periods of time. If you're following these tips and your sore throat persists, it's best to see a doctor. They can determine if you have a viral or bacterial infection and prescribe the appropriate treatment.


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The Love Hormone: Oxytocin

Couple hugging
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Do you ever feel like you're in love? That you can't get enough of the person you're with? That you would do anything for them? If you've ever felt this way, then you can thank oxytocin for those intense feelings. Oxytocin is often called the "love hormone" because it plays a key role in social bonding, sexual reproduction, and maternal behaviors. But what exactly is oxytocin? And how does it work? Oxytocin is a hormone that is produced in the brain and released into the bloodstream. It is most well-known for its role in promoting bonding between mothers and their infants, but it also plays a role in sexual reproduction, stress relief, and social interactions. When oxytocin is released into the bloodstream, it travels to the uterus where it helps to stimulate contractions during labor. Oxytocin is also released during breastfeeding, which helps to promote bonding between mother and child. In addition to its role in reproduction, oxytocin has also been shown to play a role in stress relief and social interactions. Oxytocin has been shown to decrease stress levels and increase trust and cooperation. So, if you're feeling the love, you can thank oxytocin for those intense feelings!

Oxytocin helps form the first bond of all

mammals. Forming the first bond is one of the most important things a mammal can do. Oxytocin helps to make this happen. Oxytocin is a hormone that is released when we hug, kiss, or even just sit close to someone else. This hormone is what helps us to feel close to others and is important for the formation of all kinds of relationships.


How long you could really be sick with the flu

sick woman using a tissue
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It's that time of year again. The leaves are falling, the temperatures are dropping, and everyone around you is sneezing and coughing. You're probably wondering how long you could really be sick with the flu. Here's the thing: the flu is a serious illness. It's not something that you can just tough out or sleep off. In fact, the flu can be deadly. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the flu is responsible for an average of 23,600 hospitalizations and 3,500 deaths in the United States each year. So, how long could you be sick with the flu? The answer is that it depends on a few different factors. First, it depends on the strain of the flu that you have. There are four different types of flu virus: A, B, C, and D. Type A and B are the most common, and they're the ones that usually cause the most severe symptoms. Second, it depends on your age and health. Older adults and people with underlying health conditions are more likely to experience serious complications from the flu, such as pneumonia. Third, it depends on how quickly you get treatment. If you start taking antiviral medications within the first 48 hours of feeling sick, you can shorten the duration of your illness by a day or two. So, if you're feeling sick, don't wait to see if it gets better on its own. Make an appointment with your doctor and get tested for the flu. And if you do have the flu, make sure to take care of yourself and get plenty of rest. The flu is nothing to mess around with.

Plenty of rest and fluids can help

prevent the flu

If you're feeling under the weather, you might be tempted to push through and tough it out. But sometimes, the best thing you can do is take a step back, relax, and let your body recover. Plenty of rest and fluids can help prevent the flu, and while it might not be the most fun way to spend a few days, it's definitely better than being bedridden with a fever. So, if you're feeling run down, listen to your body and take a break. Get some rest, drink lots of fluids, and give yourself a chance to get better. It might not be fun, but it's definitely worth it.