The terms Cold and Flu often get used interchangeably although they are different Illnesses. Their symptoms are very similar at first glance, including a stuffy or runny nose, sneezing, general fatigue, and body aches. However, the two conditions are caused by completely different viruses and over time with the illness, the symptoms will change to make it more clear which illness a person is suffering from. Flu symptoms tend to be more severe than those of a cold, and can also cause additional health conditions such as ear and sinus infections, pneumonia, and sepsis.

Your doctor will be able to determine which illness you are suffering from and provide direction on Treatment if any. A common cold will go away on its own, typically within 10 days to 2 weeks, once it has run its course. Sufferers can manage symptoms as needed using over-the-counter cold medications, getting plenty of rest, and staying well hydrated. The flu on the other hand will typically start off with more severe symptoms that come on suddenly, over the course of a few hours, with symptoms clearing up over the course of a few weeks for most people.

Regular Ear Cleaning can help reduce the risk of ear infections, particularly those caused by excessive earwax buildup. Earwax serves as a natural barrier, trapping dust, debris, and bacteria to protect the ear canal. However, when earwax accumulates and hardens, it can block the ear canal, creating a moist environment that may promote bacterial growth and increase the likelihood of infection. Regular ear cleaning, especially when done by a healthcare professional, can help remove excessive or impacted wax, preventing it from causing infections like otitis externa (swimmer's ear) or otitis media (middle ear infection).

However, it is essential to note that ear cleaning alone cannot guarantee the prevention of all ear infections. Infections can also be caused by other factors, such as bacteria entering the ear, allergies, or respiratory illnesses. For people who are prone to ear infections, maintaining proper ear hygiene, avoiding the insertion of objects like cotton swabs into the ear canal, and following ENT recommendations for ear care can help reduce the frequency and severity of ear infections. Professional ear cleaning by an ENT ensures that the process is done safely, reducing the risk of ear injury or infection from improper cleaning techniques.