What's Going Around: Colds, Sore Throats, Allergies

Colds, sore throats and allergies are what's going around in Green Country.

Doctors and nurses from the Muscogee Creek Nation Department of Health say symptoms can be similar to the flu but a cold is usually milder.

Nurse Practitioner Kim Hicks Jenkins at the Okmulgee Express Clinic said colds can cause a runny or stuffy nose, and a cough but not necessarily a fever.

If your symptoms last for more than one week or you start to have difficulty breathing go see your doctor. Colds are contagious, so avoid others who are sick and wash your hands for at least 30 seconds.

Sore throats can be pretty annoying and may cause pain or a scratchy sensation in your throat, it might hurt to talk or swallow and your voice may be hoarse.

Go see your doctor if your sore throat lasts longer than a week, if you get a fever or rash or you start having swelling in your neck. Allergies may also cause your sore throat.

And because of the changing weather, wind and smoke from fires, you may be sneezing more or be pretty stuffed up. Allergies can also cause itchy eyes, headaches or dark circles under your eyes.

Anti-histamines work for runny noses but be careful because right now the area is dry and nosebleeds may occur, so a humidifier may be necessary at night. A nasal saline several times a day also helps.

If symptoms continue, you might go see your doctor since some allergies can cause sinus infections.