With the flu season fast approaching it's important that you do what you can to avoid it - especially if you are within an at risk category based on your age or general health. One thing alone will not be enough - for example you can't expect a flu shot by itself to keep you immune. We've compiled the top tips for flu prevention from Dr. Grossan a well known ENT at Cedars-Sinai, author of "The Sinus Cure."
The key to preventing flu infection is to keep the immune system up. One reason we get flu in winter is the depression that comes with the dark days and cold. In fact, bright lights can actually brighten your outlook and help the immune system. Depression is a serious flu-catching factor. Depression lowers the immune system, sometimes dramatically. You might be surprised to learn that collecting jokes to tell your friends can actually elevate your immune system. Watch humorous shows and rent comedies to boost your flu protection.
Good hand washing is also crucial, and simply using soap and water is best. Wash often to remove flu virus before you put your hands near your eyes, mouth or nose. Sleep is paramount in keeping the immune system up. Try to keep an exact sleep schedule. To set your sleep clock, go to sleep at the same hour and practice the same habits every night wash face, brush hair, brush teeth, etc. In addition, avoid a meal three hours before sleep.
Here's the top tips in summary:
1. Before the flu season really hits, get the appropriate flu shot.
2. Fight off winter-time depression and boost your immune system by using bright lights, which actually brighten your mood and help protect your body.
3. Collect jokes to tell your friends, watch humorous shows and rent comedies to keep your mood positive and boost your flu protection.
4. Use a water soluble nasal gel, such as Breathe Ease XL, which coats the nasal tissue to prevent the virus from entering.
5. Put a pan of water in the bedroom; it will evaporate and moisten the air while you sleep.
6. Wash your hands with soap and water. Wash often to remove flu virus before you put your hands near your eyes, mouth or nose.
7. Try to keep an exact sleep schedule. Set your sleep clock by going to sleep at the same hour and practicing the same habits every night wash face, brush hair, brush teeth, etc. In addition, avoid a meal three hours before sleep.
8. Drink lots of black or green tea, with lemon and honey (with or without caffeine). It contains antioxidants and a chemical called L-Theanine, which primes the immune blood cells.
9. If you will be travelling on planes, carry tea bags to drink on the flight and bring lots of tissues, for yourself or a sick neighbour.
10. If your cough persists after the flu, be sure to get a bronchial inhaler from your doctor. This opens the chest and allows for mucus to exit more easily, and for air to get into the lungs.
We hope you weather the winter storms and stay healthy to learn more check out the Sinus Health Center.
Tips from obtained from Murray Grossan, M.D. Cedars-Sinai, Author of "The Sinus Cure."
