What Are the Signs and Symptoms of a Cold?

During the fall and winter, you are likely to hear a considerable amount about cold and flu season. This is especially true if you are a family caregiver, and concerned about the health and well-being of an elderly adult. You know seniors are more susceptible to illness and infection than younger people, and you want to make sure your parent gets the care and support necessary to prevent illness, or cope with it effectively it should occur. One of the most important elements of this is understanding the different signs and symptoms of illnesses they may face. Being able to tell the difference between a cold and the flu, for example, can ease your mind, and ensure your parent has access to the most appropriate care and support.

Some of the signs and symptoms of a cold include:

• Sneezing
• Low-grade fever
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Mild body aches
• Mild headache
• Cough
• Congestion
• Sore throat
• Experiencing an overall feeling of being unwell

The speed at which the symptoms develop and worsen is one of the best indications that your senior is dealing with a cold rather than the flu or something else. Cold symptoms develop rapidly, often showing up as little as 10 to 12 hours after coming into contact with the virus. They then get worse quickly, and peak after two to three days. Though colds are usually mild and do not require any special medical attention, if your parent has a high fever, is struggling to breathe, has a severe cough, or otherwise seems to be dealing with very serious symptoms, do not hesitate to get in touch with their doctor as soon as possible. This can help to rule out worsening of the symptoms into something severe such as pneumonia.

One of the best ways to help your senior stay healthy as they age in place is starting home care for them. An in-home senior care services provider can be with your aging parent on a fully customized schedule that is right not just for the challenges and limitations your parents faces on a regular basis, but also the care you give them. This ensures any care gaps that exist are effectively filled, while also it keeping you at the forefront of your senior's care routine. Not only does this promote the highest quality of life for your parent, but it also allows you to focus more energy and attention on your parent-child relationship, quality time with your loved one, and other elements of their care and your life.

IF YOU OR AN AGING LOVED ONE ARE CONSIDERING HIRING HOMECARE IN GOLD COAST, IL, PLEASE CONTACT THE CARING STAFF AT BRIGHTSTAR CARE CHICAGO. CALL TODAY: 312.382.8888.