tips for virus treatment Did you know the average adult is likely to catch two to four colds per year? take up the Bupa oer Take up the Bupa oer today – As the end of the year approaches it’s Soothe a sore and dry throat. Use throat lozenges, exclusive to HIA members. If you important to manage any cold or flu you a saltwater gargle or ice chips, whichever you prefer. transfer from another registered develop to ensure you don’t burn out health fund you won’t need to Try to clear your nose. Adding moisture to the serve any waiting periods/home/webapps/asp_au/data/asp/publications/au-hia/publications/housing/housing-september-2018-hi-res-optimised. before the summer months and the fast- air by using a vaporiser or a humidifier may help Just by mentioning you are a approaching Christmas holidays. relieve congestion in the nasal cavity. There are also HIA member you’ll receive six There are over 200 different rhinoviruses which saline nasal drops or sprays to help relieve a runny weeks of complimentary cover can cause a cold, while different strains of the or blocked nose. Use tissues to blow your nose when you join hospital and influenza virus cause the flu. Mild and moderate gently, and make sure you dispose of used tissues extras with Bupa*. cases of both the cold and flu viruses can look straightaway to reduce the chances of spreading and feel very similar. Symptoms of a cold can the infection. For more information include: a fever of more than 38 degrees Celsius, call 134 135 and quote your sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, cough, or a Relieve fever, pain and discomfort. An over-the- special oer code 2107431 sore throat. The flu has similar symptoms, but you counter analgesic (painkiller) such as paracetamol or Email hia@bupa.com.au may also experience aching muscles, limb and ibuprofen may help. You may also consider cold and Visit www.hia.com.au joint pain, diarrhoea or stomach upset, and loss of flu medications to help manage symptoms. Typically, appetite. these combine antihistamines (to help reduce If you’ve had a cold or flu before you may sneezing and watery eyes), decongestants (to help have left the doctor’s office frustrated that there clear your nose), and analgesics (to reduce fever is no easy cure, because antibiotics don’t work and relieve pain). Always discuss any medications on viruses. However, that doesn’t mean there’s and conditions you may have with your doctor or nothing to help you feel better and recover pharmacist to decide whether these medications are as quickly as possible. You can still treat the suitable for you before starting any new treatment. symptoms, and keep yourself comfortable while When to see your doctor your body’s immune system fights the battle As always, talk to your doctor if you are concerned against viral infection. about how you’re feeling, particularly if you or Top tips for recovery someone in your care: Here are some ways to help you, or someone you • has cold or flu-like symptoms for care for, feel more comfortable while recovering longer than 10 days from a cold or the flu. • has a cough lasting longer than three weeks • can’t or won’t drink fluids Rest. It’s vital to help your immune system stay at • vomits frequently its best to fight the virus. As a plus if you are resting• complains of an intense headache at home, you are reducing the number of people • experiences chest pain or breathing difficulties that you could potentially share the virus with. • develops a rash or fever. Keep up the fluids. Drinking lots of water helps your body stay hydrated and can also help to /home/webapps/asp_au/data/asp/publications/au-hia/publications/housing/housing-september-2018-hi-res-optimisedApplicable if you transfer within 60 days of leaving your previous health insurer, loosen any congestion in your airways. In addition and upon receipt of your Clearance Certificate. Waiting periods may apply for benefits or waiting periods not fully covered with your previous health cover. *Only to water, you can try some juice, clear broth, or for new customers on new hospital and extras cover policies issued by Bupa Australia Pty Ltd ABN 81 000 057 590 before December 31 2018 and paying by warm water with lemon and honey. direct debit. Six weeks free after initial monthly payment, not with other offers. 114 HOUSING SEPTEMBER 2018 LIFESTYLES • HEALTH AND WELLBEING