Dr. Neil, Author at The Good Doctor's Guide to Colds & Flu

November 5, 2020

When do I need a chest X-ray?

QUESTION: When do I need a chest X-ray? ANSWER: Normally the three key signs that an X-ray is required are chest pain, shortness of breath, and severe cough accompanied by green, cloudy, or rusty mucus. If you have underlying pulmonary or cardiac problems such as asthma or congestive heart failure, then…

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Ask Dr Neil Asthma

October 29, 2020

Can wool blankets provoke asthma symptoms?

QUESTION: Can wool blankets provoke asthma symptoms? ANSWER: Wool is an organic fabric and can potentially cause allergy symptoms in sensitive people. So can wool carpeting which will release irritating fibers in the air every you walk on them. In addition, wool is particularly favored by dust mites, whose allergens are…

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Ask Dr Neil General

October 24, 2020

If fever is a natural defense against infection, why should I try to lower it?

QUESTION: If fever is a natural defense against infection, why should I try to lower it? ANSWER: While fever is a natural defense mechanism, it is not always helpful for infections. In fact, fever is dehydrating, raises blood pressure, and puts a strain on the heart and kidneys. You will feel…

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Ask Dr Neil General

October 22, 2020

Are antiseptic sprays helpful in the home and office?

QUESTION: Are antiseptic sprays helpful in the home and office? ANSWER: Disinfectant sprays and wipes, such as those made by Lysol, clean the surface of bathrooms, telephones, and kitchens and have been shown to kill both viruses and bacteria. They cannot be used in the air, but cleaning of commonly used…

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Ask Dr Neil General

October 20, 2020

Is garlic good for colds?

QUESTION: Is garlic good for colds? ANSWER: Garlic has mild antibacterial activity, but is not strong enough to help fight off infections such as strep throat or bacterial bronchitis. Garlic is delicious in food, but you need more targeted treatments for infections.

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Ask Dr Neil Colds and Flu

October 18, 2020

Should I exercise with a cold?

QUESTION: Should I exercise with a cold? ANSWER: I suggest that you do a “neck check.” If your symptoms are above your neck (e.g., sneezing, congestion, or sore throat) then it's okay to work out. But if you have symptoms below the neck, including cough, body aches, and chills, then take…

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Ask Dr Neil Colds and Flu

October 13, 2020

Does stress cause me to catch colds?

QUESTION: Does stress cause me to catch colds? ANSWER: Repeated studies have shown that stress depresses immunity and may increase the risk of developing infections. However, it's easy to tell you to relax and much harder to control stressful work and family relationships. In the peak season for colds and flu,…

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Ask Dr Neil Colds and Flu

October 12, 2020

Are cold sores caused by the same virus that causes colds?

QUESTION: Are cold sores caused by the same virus that causes colds? ANSWER: Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus, not by one of the over 200 viruses that leads to colds. People infected with herpes simplex tend to have flare-ups when their immunity is lowered such as during illness…

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Ask Dr Neil General

October 12, 2020

When should I call a doctor?

QUESTION: When should I call a doctor? ANSWER: With most respiratory infections you probably feel sicker than you actually are. Nasal congestion makes it hard to breathe, while inflammatory compounds raise fever and produce aches and fatigue. When you call your physician with these complaints you are not likely to get…

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