The Cold & Flu section provides the latest updates and expert advice, focusing on prevention, treatments, and effective strategies to manage symptoms of these common illnesses.

A dry cough can stem from the flu, common cold, asthma, exposure to cigarette smoke, and other causes. Home approaches like honey, peppermint, or air cleaners might provide relief, but persistent coughing should be evaluated by a physician. A dry cough, also known as an unproductive cough, differs from a wet or productive cough because […]

What is On Guard? Although some studies point to potential health advantages, the FDA does not oversee or regulate the purity and quality of essential oils. It’s wise to consult a healthcare professional before starting essential oil use and to investigate the quality of any brand’s offerings. Always perform a patch test prior to trying […]

(img by AliExpress) Let’s Talk About That Glow Okay, picture this: you’re curled up on the couch, tissues jammed in your hoodie pocket, barely able to breathe through your nose (again). Ugh. And just for a second, let’s admit it—how many times have you wished for a magic fix? One without all the pills, sprays, […]

Wait…Why Is My Nose Always Mad in Winter? Let’s be honest. The minute October swings around and the air gets that “too crisp” vibe, it’s like your nose flips a switch. Runny. Stuffed. Maybe a little sore. I swear, at least one person in my house is always on “tissue alert.” Ever wondered what’s up […]

(img by The Philadelphia Inquirer) Let’s Just Get To It Did you ever find yourself standing in the pharmacy aisle, nose running, eyes droopy, and thinking, “Okay, am I about to turn my kitchen into a chemistry lab?” Because… same. You want this cold to hit the road, FAST, but then you grab both Advil […]

Fall’s Sneaky Arrival You know that moment… the leaves start to tumble, mornings are finally sweater-worthy again—and suddenly, your kid wakes up burning with a fever. It’s never just sniffles, is it? There’s always that little voice in your head whispering: Uh-oh, is it flu season already? If you’re reading this, I’m guessing you’ve felt […]

Let’s cut to the chase: thick, weird-colored snot isn’t just gross—it’s your body’s way of waving a little flag. Explanation first, embarrassment later. Yellow mucus? Your immune system’s throwing a party—or a viral cold. Green snot? Yeah—that’s not a sign of a TikTok myth. It’s a signal your white blood cells are working overtime. Still […]

Hot take: The CDC dialed down its H5N1 bird flu emergency status on July 2, 2025. Not because it vanished—it hasn’t—but because human cases dropped off, farm infections cooled, and politicians (yes, political decisions are a thing now) hit the pause button. The public health risk is low, but… should we pack up the hand […]