Get Well Wednesday: All You Need To Know About The Flu

How do I determine if it’s asthma or a real bad flu?

The flu vs. asthma – the flu is usually accompanied by fever,chills and body aches.

Dr. Ken, I’ve heard that after getting a flu shot often people get the flu, is that true?

NO, not at all. The flu virus is an inactivated (or killed virus) so it cannot give you the flu. But remember, it takes up to 2 weeks after getting the flu shot for it to work, so in that time frame you can still get a flu until it “kicks in” which may make some people feel the vaccine was the cause.

What’s the name of the homeopathic medicine for the flu that the doctor spoke of this morning on the show?

Oscillococcinum (Oscillo for short). It can be found in several grocery stores, pharmacies and natural food stores.

Question for the doctor: In light of the fact that increased hand washing occurs during flu season how do you recommend we moisturize our hands?

I prefer some of the more of the natural options for moisturizing that have shea butter, but Eucerin Intensive Repair lotion is also a favorite of mine.

I have multiple sclerosis, which is an autoimmune disease. Am I a good candidate for the flu shot?

Yes. But it’s important for you to get the inactivated vaccine, not the live vaccine. I would also prefer you wait up to 4 to 6 weeks after a severe relapse.

Can the doctor refer me to a good doctor for multiple sclerosis? I been dealing with this for over 10 years. 

I would be more than happy to send you some recommendations, but I am more familiar with options in the Northeast (I am in New York) if that is in your neck of the woods. You can contact me via my official website HERE.

Does orange juice or cranberry juice help your body fight the flu?

Not directly with the flu virus (influenza) but there is some small benefit seen in some studies against the common cold. These people were taking at least 200mg/day of vitamin C.

Does taking multivitamins help build your immunity against the flu virus?

There is some small benefit seen in some studies against the common cold when people are taking at least 200mg/day of vitamin C. Zinc has also been shown to reduce the duration of flu-like symptoms. You should also consider a probiotic.

If your doctor no longer has high dose flu shots for 65 and older, is it OK to receive the low dose?

Although the high dose is preferable for its superior coverage for our folks over 65, the standard dose can still be administered. Its that important that they get vaccinated.

How is it that doctors are around sick people all day yet they never get sick??

I am asked that every year, and for me it comes from washing my hands often, getting enough sleep, and managing my stress (with meditation). I also think about the passion and commitment I have for keeping others healthy which I can’t do if I am sick!

What kinds of meds does the doctor recommend for those of us with high blood pressure, since some meds will cause our blood pressure to go up?

Actually, it can depend on your medical conditions and your background. For instance there have been several studies that have shown that African-American patients with hypertension do better on calcium channel blockers (i.e. amlodipine) or diuretics (hydrocholorthiazide). And any patients with diabetes should be on an ace inhibitor (i.e. lisinopril).

Dr. Redcross, do you recommend the anti-flu mist?

If the patient is not pregnant and between the ages of 2 to 49, it’s a wonderful option.

I am diabetic, and I have high blood pressure. What is the best remedy for a cold?

Even with diabetes the management of flu-like symptoms are similar to those of non diabetics, such as chicken noodle soup, Oscillo (homeopathic remedy), zinc supplements and probiotics. Also included is getting the proper rest.

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