Navigating Seasonal Health Challenges: Tips from a General Medicine Specialist

As autumn sets in and the crisp air encourages us to gather indoors, the likelihood of catching colds and other illnesses tends to rise. Tracy Ghattas, a specialist in general medicine at Kry, regularly encounters patients who turn to traditional home remedies during this busy season for respiratory infections. "Autumn is the most intense period for respiratory infections," she notes, highlighting the distinction between common cold symptoms and more serious conditions. When battling a cold, many people resort to warm drinks, and Tracy emphasizes the benefits of tea with ginger, lemon, and honey. "Honey can actually help soothe a sore throat when consumed warm," she says, although she cautions that there isn’t conclusive evidence to support the efficacy of ginger or lemon in speeding up recovery. Nonetheless, a good intake of warm fluids is essential, not only to help the body stay hydrated but also to ease symptoms. Self-care often suffices for most common colds, with rest and hydration proving to be the best treatment strategies. Furthermore, Tracy reminds us that maintaining good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing and staying home when symptomatic, is pivotal in preventing the spread of illness. As stomach ailments become prevalent during autumn, especially among children in schools and daycare, Tracy addresses common remedies like flat cola, blueberry soup, and grated apple. While fluids are critical, she warns that cola can exacerbate diarrhea due to its high sugar content, while blueberry soup can have a mild binding effect. Stomach flu often arrives abruptly with nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, escalating as colder weather approaches. To combat stomach viruses, it's vital to stay hydrated, ideally using oral rehydration solutions to prevent dehydration. Tracy notes that the spread of infections is rapid in communal spaces, urging people to practice diligent hygiene. Turning towards skin care, Tracy discusses how the shifting seasons can aggravate skin issues, leading to dryness and irritation caused by cold winds and dry indoor air. She observes an increase in visits related to itching and eczema during this time. "For some, fragrance-free creams will suffice, but for others, prescription treatments may be necessary," she advises. Bathing with oatmeal could provide soothing effects on the skin, although Tracy cautions that some oils may irritate skin prone to eczema. When faced with runny noses and coughs common among children, Tracy encourages parents to prioritize their child’s overall well-being. Home remedies, such as using onions or garlic, lack scientific backing, yet she suggests that elevating the child's head may ease breathing and alleviate pressure during ear infections. Maintaining hydration and rest is key, with professional help sought when symptoms worsen. Whether you're dealing with fevers, stomach issues, skin problems, or even mental fatigue, Tracy assures that help is always accessible. The Kry app allows users to seek medical advice at any hour of the day with the option to schedule physical examinations at one of Kry’s healthcare centers, often available on the same day. As the colder months approach, many will experience various health concerns, but you need not weather these challenges alone. Seeking professional help is always the right course of action when you're feeling unwell, and with Kry at your fingertips, support is just a click away. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2