Health Questions and Answers

The cold and the flu are both respiratory illnesses but they are caused by different viruses. Because these two types of illnesses have similar flu-like symptoms, it can be difficult to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone. In general, the flu is worse than the common cold, and symptoms such as fever, body aches, extreme tiredness, and dry cough are more common and intense. Colds are usually milder than the flu. People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose. Colds generally do not result in serious health problems, such as pneumonia, bacterial infections, or hospitalizations.

For cervical cancer, the interval for having a pap smear has changed. If you are considered to be in a low risk category, then routine testing is no longer needed. The frequency of assessment is now every 3 years.Click here for more information.

The safest over-the-counter pain medication that you can use in pregnancy is acetaminophen, usually sold under the brand name Tylenol. To make sure, that you take the right dose, always check with your pharmacist.

Most illnesses are caused by 2 kinds of germs: bacteria and viruses. Antibiotics are not used to treat illnesses caused by viruses such as the cold, flu, most sore throats. Even high fevers, can be caused by viruses and CANNOT be treated by antibiotics. Remember that using antibiotics to treat a virus will NOT cure the illness and will NOT help you feel better. Over-use of antibiotics makes the bacteria resistant, making it harder to treat infections and can stay in your body causing more serious illnesses.
REMEMBER: When your Physician does not offer antibiotics, it’s in your best interest.