First Aid Handbook

Now that fall is here, it’s not uncommon to wake up one morning with that scratchy feeling in the back of your throat or find yourself having a sneezing attack at work. While many of us may experience seasonal allergies at this time of year, colds and upper respiratory infections may also be the cause of symptoms like these. The upper respiratory tract includes the sinuses, nasal passages, pharynx, throat, and larynx and an infection may occur in any or all of these passageways.

Ouch! Have you ever woken up with an excruciating pain in your big toe – literally? If this has every happened to you, it may be a symptom of a condition known as gout.

Fall officially begins with the autumnal equinox (this year on September 22), when even in Texas our thoughts turn to pumpkin spice [everything!], harvest festivals, scarecrows, sweaters, and [of course] football. While you may not think about flu season until the weather really starts to feel like fall, the best time to get your annual fall flu shot may be earlier than you think.

Norovirus is an infection that is not necessarily dangerous but can keep you home for several days. Young children, older adults, and anyone with an underlying disease may experience more complications or symptoms from the virus for a longer period. It’s important to know not only what symptoms to look out for, but also what you can do to prevent contracting norovirus.

A fever is the temporary increase in body temperature in response to a disease or illness. It’s important to remember that a fever is not an illness, but a sign that the immune system is fighting off a bacterial or viral infection. Most of the illnesses that cause a fever aren’t dangerous and treatable at home.