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Community Corner

Cold and Flu Season is Upon Us, Preventative Ideas and Remedies

Vineyarders dealing with the first wave of winter sickness.

 

It's that time of the year, every other person is suffering from the flu, the common cold or a mixture of the two. If you haven't started feeling under the weather take this opportunity to stock up on some tried and true preventative measures. Use caution around all the achy, sniffley ones out there and don't forget to wash your hands often. 

Here are a few of our tips for staying healthy and getting better:

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For prevention if you are still feeling good: Take a Z-pack to build up your immune system. You can find a Z-pack at Conroy's or your local pharmacy or drug store. Intake as much Vitamin C as possible.  Vitamin C doesn't do much once you're sick but it's great for warding off the germs and illnesses. 

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For the sick one in your house: Chicken Noodle soup does wonders, it's actually been proven.  If you have time make it from scratch.  A warm shower goes a long way as well as your go-to pain reliever to take off the edge. Herbal tea with honey is perfect for soothing a sore throat. 

For sinus relief: Try a Neti Pot, you can find one at Healthy Additions.  Might look a little funny but they say you try it once and you're sold. Use your Neti Pot 2-3 times a day for optimal results. 

For those who see a doctor as the last resort: Make a visit to your chiropractor, often times our spine puts pressure on nerves that control the function of vital organs.  No better way to heal than to have all organs working at their capacity. Some people swear by hot yoga when ill, sweat out your sickness.  Healthy Additions is full of homeopathic remedies, just ask for some help, everyone there is very knowledgeable. 

It may sound obvious but if you're sick, take a day or two and stay away from all the healthy people and if you're healthy keep your distance. And if the achy head, running nose, cough, fever, and chills become unbearable and the symptoms continue to worsen, make an appointment with your doctor or head to one of our island clinics:

Vineyard Medical Services offers both walk-in service and appointments. Patients are seen on a first-come, first-serve basis. Appointments are available in the afternoon.

  • Hours: walk-in clinic is held every morning from 8:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m (call to confirm hours)

Call (508) 693-4400 to make afternoon appointments or to inquire about the wait time. 

 

Island Health Care is a community health care center providing adult primary and urgent medical care to residents and visitors. Care available for all with or without health insurance. Free care and sliding-scale fees are available. Evening and weekend hours, walk-ins welcome. 

Call (508) 939-9358 to make appointments or to inquire about the wait time. 

 

What are your reliable remedies for cold and flu season? Share them with us. 

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