Sure, it has been fall since the third week of September, but the progression into lower temperatures and shorter days is gradual.  However, with the time change a week ago and a recent spell of sub-freezing temperatures, it is quite apparent that winter is knocking at our door.  Of course, beyond the meteorological conditions, there are other indicators that winter is near: ads for ski swaps, holiday music in stores, the arrival of the first cold of the season.

Yes, not only is it the start of cold season (as in weather), it also the start of cold season (as in health).  In our house we have experienced the first cold and all of its symptoms:  stuffy nose, sore throat, headache, cough, sinus pain, ear pain.  Like most colds it lasted for nearly a week, making it a tiring week for the patient.  Luckily for us, the cold was contained to only one of us, which in itself is a victory.

As my children are older, I no longer have the concerns that I did as a new mom.  I understand that colds may linger and that, generally speaking, there’s no need for a trip to the doctor without a fever.*  However, I also like to keep current with new products or treatments that can help reduce the symptoms of a cold.  My quest for this sort of knowledge makes our publication, Health Eagle, one of my resources during these times.  For example, we recently posted an article that clarified the benefit of Vitamin D.  Reading this article, I knew that adding that vitamin would not be beneficial.

Of course, Health Eagle covers more than the common cold.  Each month we highlight one medical issue, such as diabetes, and dedicate multiple articles to it. We also have a weekly Ask the Doctor column.  We have a pediatrician who writes a monthly column that focuses on children.  Heart health, medication information, healthy diet, mental health, we cover all of these and more.

When the first cold of the season arrives at your house or you have a general medical concern, give Health Eagle a read. We may have what you are seeking.

*I am not a medical professional nor am advising at what point other parents should take their children to their doctor.  This is a decision to be made by the individual parents and their health care providers.