What We're Seeing in the Office

Cases of strep throat, and gastrointestinal virus have joined that nasty cold virus that's going around!

Strep symptoms include sore thorat, fever, headache ~ and sometimes stomach ache. (If you or your child just has a sore thorat with cold symptoms ~ like a runny nose ~ most likely it's not strep.) However, you can't treat strep with home remedies, Left untreated, it can led to more serious conditioins, so if you suspect it, call for an appointment for a strep test.

Symptoms of gastrointestinal virus include nasusea, vomiting and/or diarrhea. Fever can be present, as well as headache or body aches. Runny nose and cough can go along with it.

To control fever, take Tylenol. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, and run a vaporizer to reduce nasal stuffiness. For diarrhea, bland foods such as banana, rice, applesauce or toast are best tolerated. If you're not feeling better after a week, or if high fever persists for more than a few days, call your doctor.

To avoid getting the cold virus, stay rested, cover your mouth and wash your hands. You'll know you have it if you have nasal congestion, a nagging cough and muscle aches.

Since a virus is the culprit, it generally has to run its course. For cold symptoms, our physicians recommend you elevate the head of the bed to help control coughting, run the humidifier, drink fluids and takeTylenol. Saline drops cna help clear a stuffed nose, and bed rest is always good.

However, if chills or high fever are present, see your doctor!