Whether or not you can believe it, cold and flu season are already in full swing—even though cold season typically peaks in January, while flu season is not until February.
This year, however, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is reporting that this is the earliest start to flu season since 2003. Other medical websites mapping cold and flu activity are showing moderate to severe activity in most states.
Unfortunately, some cold and flu illnesses can develop into more severe (not to mention prolonged) conditions including bronchitis, pneumonia, or sinus/ear infections. Bronchitis is of particular concern as it can develop into pneumonia or the increasingly common Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
More from Fox: Flu Activity Turns Deadly
Bronchitis is an inflammation of the lining of your bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from your lungs. Bronchitis may be either acute or chronic. Acute bronchitis is more common, of shorter duration and often results from a cold (90% of cases are viral in origin), while chronic bronchitis lasts at least three months and is often due to smoking.
The symptoms of bronchitis may be similar to the flu—cough, fatigue, fever or chills—but may also include chest discomfort and the production of mucus. If your cough lasts more than three weeks, produces discolored mucus or blood, or causes wheezing or shortness of breath, be sure to see your physician.
More from Fox: The State Of Health Care In America
Fortunately, there are some relatively simple steps you can take to help reduce both your risk for developing bronchitis and the duration of the illness.
- First, if you are a smoker, stop immediately. Try to avoid lung irritants of any type, including air pollution, paint, household cleaners, or dust from things like coal or concrete.
- Use a humidifier whenever possible, because warm, moist air can help relieve coughs and loosen mucus in your airways.
- Being that many cases of bronchitis result from flu virus, make sure to get your annual flu vaccination.
- Finally, be vigilant about washing your hands or using a hand sanitizer during cold and flu season.
More from Fox: Anti-Anxiety Meds May Increase Pneumonia Risk