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Whether you’re wondering if your child has asthma or they’ve already been diagnosed, here are the common symptoms to look out for, the treatment you can expect.

How to Manage Your Child’s Asthma

Of the over 19 million people who have asthma in the United States, nearly 6 million of them are children. This chronic disease makes it hard to breathe and thus can affect every aspect of your child’s life, from school to play. And with allergy season just around the corner, you might hear extra coughing and sneezing around the house. Whether you’re wondering if your child has asthma or they’ve already been diagnosed, here are the common symptoms to look out for, the treatment you can expect, and the impact COVID-19 could have on those with asthma.

What are the signs my child might have asthma?

The signs and symptoms of asthma can vary by child but, in general, some common signs your child might have the disease include coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, and tightness in the chest. The severity of these will also vary, with some cases being mild and manageable and more severe cases requiring emergency care.

Symptoms appear when your child is exposed to triggers like pollen or smoke. Triggers cause the airways to become inflamed, which causes swelling and mucus production, and leads to an overall narrowing of the air passageway making it harder to breathe and leading to the above symptoms. 

Since symptoms of asthma can be signs of other ailments as well, it can be difficult to always know if what your child is experiencing is asthma. Coughing, for example, can also be a symptom of a cold or the flu. Another asthmatic symptom—wheezing—could also be caused by bronchitis or another respiratory problem. 

This is where other asthmatic signs like your child saying “I’m always coughing” or “My chest feels funny,” can be helpful. Either way, if your child shows any of these symptoms, it can be a good idea to make an appointment with your doctor so your child can start getting treatment if needed.

Your doctor will likely use a few different methods to test if your child has asthma. First, they’ll ask for your child’s medical history, where they can share symptoms and any triggers they may have noticed. Then the doctor will conduct a physical exam which will look at your child’s nose and throat, their breathing, and skin for any signs of allergic conditions. They may also conduct a series of lung function tests and a chest or sinus X-ray.

The doctor will then look at the results of these tests to discern if your child has asthma and what type. From there, they will develop a treatment plan based on the type and severity of your child’s symptoms.

A quick-relief inhaler may be enough to keep symptoms under control for mild cases of asthma. Depending on how your child is doing, more treatments can be added if needed. Maintenance treatments can help reduce the need for quick-relief inhalers. In fact, how often these inhalers are used is an indicator of asthma control for doctors and can help them determine the proper treatment plan. 

The second main aspect of treatment is avoiding triggers. The most common triggers include irritants such as air pollution, cold air, odors or smoke, as well as mold, dust mites, and pollen. Other triggers include sinus infections, exercise, heartburn, and allergic reactions.

Since the world is unpredictable, you can’t always control triggers, but you can take certain measures to help keep them in check, such as changing your diet when food reactions occur, minimizing smoking, and requesting an indoor air assessment. A variety of virtual asthma education classes and workshops are also offered online to help you learn best practices when it comes to prevention and treatment. 

What effect does COVID-19 have on my child’s asthma?

According to the CDC, those with moderate to severe asthma may be at an increased risk for more severe illness from the virus that causes COVID-19. To help reduce your risk, it’s recommended that you continue taking your current medicines, including any inhalers with corticosteroids in them. The CDC also recommends that you keep a 30-day supply of your asthma medications on hand so you don’t risk running out if you fall sick, need to quarantine, or otherwise can’t make it to the pharmacy.

In addition to these asthma-specific strategies, the everyday COVID-19 protocols of wearing a mask, socially distancing, and avoiding large crowds should be followed. If you’re worried that wearing a mask might affect asthma symptoms, research that came out last month showed that wearing a mask did not affect oxygen levels, regardless of whether the wearer had asthma or not. 

If you have concerns about your condition or think you may have been exposed to COVID-19, you should call your healthcare provider. If you don’t have a provider, you can contact your nearest community health center or health department. 

Many people live normal lives with proper asthma management. A good treatment plan, guidance from your doctor, and a reliable pharmacy can help you manage your child’s symptoms so they can keep doing most of those everyday activities they enjoy. 

We’re here to help your child breathe easier

Whether you need to get your child’s first inhaler or obtain prescription refills, Alto is here every step of the way. Our pharmacists are on hand to answer any questions and our pharmacies around the country are fully stocked with asthma medications. We’re prepared and ready to deliver your medicines throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. To ensure safety, we offer free, contactless drop-offs for every prescription, so you can get your refills on time in the comfort of your home. Reach out any time via in-app secure messaging or phone at 1-800-874-5881.

This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a long-term inflammatory condition that obstructs the airflow from the lungs. Here’s what you need to know about keeping your lungs healthy to avoid or manage COPD. 

Understanding Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

The delicate, branching structures of the lungs bear a striking resemblance to trees. The air you breathe travels down your windpipe, or trachea, and enters the lungs through two large tubes known as bronchi. Just like the roots and limbs of a tree, these tubes divide again and again into smaller bronchioles before finally ending in clusters of tiny air sacs called alveoli—what you might consider the leaves. 

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a long-term inflammatory condition that obstructs the airflow from the lungs and makes it difficult to breathe. Although it's the third leading cause of death in the U.S., the good news is that it can be prevented and treated to slow the progression and maintain quality of life. Here’s what you need to know about keeping your lungs healthy to avoid or manage COPD. 

COPD refers to a group of progressive lung diseases, meaning the condition becomes worse over time. The most common are emphysema and chronic bronchitis, and many people with COPD have both of these conditions. 

Emphysema destroys the fragile air sacs in the lungs, which impairs the airflow. The air carrying carbon dioxide out of the body cannot be adequately expelled and some remains trapped in the lungs. Fresh, oxygen-rich air is then blocked from entering the lungs, causing gradually worsening shortness of breath, even while at rest.

According to the Mayo Clinic, most people with emphysema also have bronchitis, which causes inflammation and narrowing of the bronchial tubes. With bronchitis, mucus builds up in the lungs, spurring a persistent cough. 

The CDC reports that sixteen million Americans have trouble breathing due to COPD. However, they estimate that the actual number includes millions more who have not yet been diagnosed. 

In the vast majority of people with COPD, lung damage is caused by cigarette smoking. According to the COPD Foundation, about 90% of people with COPD are current or former smokers. However, damage can also be caused by long-term exposure to irritating gases or particulate matter, including air pollution and workplace exposure to dust, smoke, or fumes. 

An estimated five percent of people with COPD have a deficiency in a protein known as alpha-1-antitrypsin, which causes the lungs to deteriorate and can also affect the liver. People with severe asthma can also progress into COPD. 

The most telling—and distressing—symptom of COPD is difficulty breathing. According to the Mayo Clinic, another major symptom is a constant cough that produces a lot of mucus. Additional symptoms may include chest tightness, wheezing, frequent respiratory infections, and fatigue. Severe COPD can cause swelling in the ankles, legs, and feet and weight loss. 

As a progressive disease, symptoms often begin mildly and may be confused for the common cold. But rather than clearing up after a week or two, the coughing and shortness of breath will continue to worsen over time and make daily activities more difficult. 

Unfortunately, by the time COPD symptoms appear, there may already be significant lung damage. Symptoms will continue to escalate, particularly if smoking or exposure to lung irritants continues. With proper intervention and treatment, however, most people with COPD can slow the disease’s progression and maintain their quality of life. 

People with COPD often experience flare-ups known as exacerbations. During these episodes, symptoms become much more severe for several days or weeks and may require treatment with antibiotics, oral corticosteroids, and even hospitalization. 

Respiratory infections or inflammation triggers—such as air pollution, secondhand smoke, dusts, fumes, or other toxic substances—are common causes of exacerbations. Anyone who experiences a marked increase in coughing, difficulty breathing, or mucus in the lungs should seek immediate medical attention. 

The best way to prevent COPD is to never smoke or stop smoking now. Quitting isn’t easy for most people, so it’s a good idea to enlist your healthcare provider’s support.  They may recommend nicotine replacement products or medications that can help. 

The CDC offers a variety of resources that can help you quit smoking, including a free text message program (text QUIT to 47848) and their quitSTART app, which is available for both Android and iOS. The Mayo Clinic outlines ten tips to help you resist the urge to smoke that you may find helpful as you get started. 

It’s also important to avoid secondhand smoke exposure and occupational exposure to chemical fumes and dust. If you work with any type of lung irritant, the Mayo Clinic advises talking with your supervisor about the best ways to protect yourself, like using respiratory protective equipment. 

Staying active will not only improve your overall health; it will also strengthen your lungs. The American Lung Association recommends getting thirty minutes of moderate physical activity five days a week. Both aerobic and muscle-strengthening exercises will benefit your lungs, so you can include anything from brisk walking to weight lifting to vigorous household cleaning. 

Lastly, make sure to get your annual flu vaccine each fall, as well as a pneumococcal vaccine, to prevent infections that can weaken your lungs. 

While there is no cure for COPD, treatment can ease symptoms and lower the risk of complications like heart disease, lung cancer, respiratory infections, pulmonary hypertension, and depression. 

COPD can be treated with medications, supplemental oxygen therapy, and surgery. However, many people with mild forms of the disease may only need to quit smoking and avoid other inflammation triggers. 

The most common medications used to treat COPD include: 

Bronchodilators, which usually come in inhalers and relax the muscles around the airways to make breathing easier. 

Inhaled corticosteroids, which help to reduce airway inflammation and prevent exacerbations. 

Oral steroids are sometimes used in short courses during periods of exacerbation to prevent further worsening of symptoms.

Phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitors are used for severe COPD. These medications decrease airway inflammation and relax the airways.

Theophylline may be used when other treatments are ineffective or if cost is a factor. It may help improve breathing and prevent exacerbations but can cause side effects like nausea, headache, rapid heartbeat, and tremors.

Antibiotics may also be used to treat respiratory infections but are generally not recommended for prevention. 

Often, a combination of these medications is used to treat COPD. Inhaled medications are taken using a device called an inhaler, which allows the medication to be absorbed straight into your lungs. If you’re prescribed a new inhaler, one of Alto’s pharmacists can walk you through how to use it.  Not all inhalers work the same way, so learning the proper technique is crucial for ensuring adequate therapy.

People with COPD are also generally prescribed a pulmonary rehabilitation program. These individually tailored programs combine exercise, nutrition advice, and counseling to prevent exacerbations, slow the progression of symptoms, and improve quality of life.

Those with insufficient oxygen reaching their blood may benefit from supplemental oxygen therapy. It involves using a lightweight, portable device to deliver oxygen directly to your lungs as needed.

Surgery may be an option for those with severe COPD, particularly severe emphysema. It’s usually reserved for when other types of treatment have failed. 

Because breathing is so elementary, it’s easy to take it for granted. But so many of the activities we enjoy—and life itself—depend on the healthy function of our lungs. 

When breathing becomes difficult, life can change drastically, so it’s important to find support. That may mean sharing your feelings with a close friend or family member, joining a support group for people with COPD, or enlisting the help of a mental health professional. 

Above all, it’s critical to follow your treatment to avoid worsening symptoms. At Alto, we want to make getting the COPD medications you need as easy as possible, so we offer free hand-delivery, automatic savings investigations, and user-friendly medication management through our website and app. We always have a team of pharmacists on-call to answer your questions by phone, text, or chat, and we’ll even remind you when your inhaler or other medications are due for a refill, then schedule a time to drop them off. 

If you’re interested in learning more about how Alto can support your COPD treatment plan, our team is available from 9 am – 12 midnight ET Monday – Friday, and 10 am – 9 pm ET on weekends. Download the mobile app for secure messaging or call 1-800-874-5881. 

This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Following prevention guidelines like mask-wearing, social distancing, and handwashing is still the surest way to stay safe. In addition, here are seven strategies to follow during the COVID-19 pandemic if you have asthma.

Seven Strategies for People with Asthma During COVID-19

As COVID-19 infection rates surge across the country, asthma is making its way into news headlines. Research published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology at the end of November suggests that people with asthma may be at reduced risk of contracting the coronavirus. 

The researchers stressed that further study is needed, and possible explanations are still being explored. But the news may be welcome for people with asthma—a chronic lung condition that causes inflammation in the airways—who are facing an additional threat to their lungs from COVID-19, which primarily affects the respiratory system.  

This singular study is no reason to relax on preventative measures, however. The CDC has warned that those with moderate-to-severe asthma who do contract COVID-19 may be at a higher risk of serious complications, including asthma attacks, pneumonia, and acute respiratory distress.

Following prevention guidelines like mask-wearing, social distancing, and handwashing is still the surest way to stay safe. However, in addition to doubling down on these efforts, here are seven strategies to follow during the COVID-19 pandemic if you have asthma:

Right now, prevention is still our best defense against serious illness from COVID-19. Though rising infection rates may mean that restrictions will tighten in the short term, eventually, the gradual phases of reopening will begin again. Remember that most reopening guidelines center on those who are not at a higher risk of COVID-19 complications. Anyone who is considered high risk due to age or an underlying medical condition, including moderate-to-severe asthma, should continue to take extra precautions as reopening in their area unfolds and adhere to the CDC’s recommendations for their specific condition. 

The coronavirus can survive on some surfaces for hours or even days; however, surface transmission does not seem to pose nearly as significant a risk as person-to-person contact. Nevertheless, the CDC advises cleaning high-touch surfaces regularly. 

This recommendation can present an issue for people with asthma. Many chemical sprays used to clean indoor spaces can trigger an asthma attack—a sudden onset of inflammation in the airways that can cause difficulty breathing, coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness.  

If possible, ask someone else in your household to disinfect surfaces and objects for you. If you need to take care of it yourself, be sure to choose disinfectants that are less likely to trigger an asthma attack. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) provides recommendations for green cleaning products and includes asthma safety ratings. 

When using cleaners or disinfectants inside, open as many doors and windows as possible. Use only the amount of product recommended on the label and follow the instructions carefully. It can also help to use wipes or a dampened towel rather than a spray to avoid inhaling aerosols while cleaning. 

The CDC recommends keeping an emergency supply (30 days’ worth) of your asthma medications on hand so you don’t risk running out if you need to quarantine, become sick, or otherwise can’t make it to the pharmacy. 

If you fill your prescription with Alto, we want to assure you that we are fully prepared to deliver your asthma medications throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. We offer free, contactless drop-offs with every single prescription, so you’ll receive your refills on time from the comfort and safety of home. 

There has been misleading information circulating online about inhaled corticosteroids (i.e. Flovent, Qvar, Pulmicort, and Asmanex)—a standard asthma treatment—possibly increasing the risk of contracting COVID-19. At the same time, other articles suggest ICS as a potential treatment for COVID-19. 

Experts are clear: there is not enough evidence to prove these assertions, and discontinuing treatment or misusing medications poses a real danger to people with asthma. If you have any concerns about your medications, continue to use them as prescribed, and reach out to your healthcare provider. Alto’s pharmacists are also on call to answer your questions by phone or in-app secure messaging.

The symptoms of an asthma attack (wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing) bear some similarities to the emergency warning signs of COVID-19 (trouble breathing, pain or pressure in the chest, confusion, and bluish lips or face)

If you’re experiencing asthma symptoms that do not respond to your treatment plan or symptoms that could indicate COVID-19 infection, seek immediate medical attention. For more information on the common symptoms of COVID-19 and other seasonal respiratory illnesses, read “Cold, Flu, or COVID-19? Your Seasonal Symptom Guide.” 

Find Ways to Cope with Stress and Anxiety

We are living in undoubtedly stressful times. Stress and strong emotions can be asthma triggers, so it’s essential to find ways to cope with anxiety during the pandemic and beyond. 

It’s impossible to avoid stress altogether, so don’t fall into a pattern of stressing about your stress. It’s much more helpful to regularly check-in with your emotional state and take steps to course-correct when you begin to become overwhelmed. 

Meditation, movement, healthy sleep habits, and social connection are effective ways to become more resilient during stressful situations. You might also consider practicing mindful breathing or another relaxation technique that you can use to calm your body and mind during a stressful situation. Your chosen method can be as simple as gradually lengthening and deepening your breathing or mentally telling each part of your body to relax. 

Leaning on the support of friends and family can help reduce stress and provide a sense of safety. However, if stress and anxiety become difficult to manage, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help. The CDC offers this list of resources for finding a counselor in your area. 

When it comes to medical advice, rely on your healthcare provider, not the internet. Our understanding of how the coronavirus works is changing every day, so falling down a rabbit hole of outdated information could cause unnecessary anxiety. Stick to reputable, timely sources like the CDC, and always consult your doctor if you have any concerns.

Our team of patient care pharmacists at Alto is also available to chat if questions come up. We’ll make sure that you’re always able to access the medications you need throughout COVID-19—with free home delivery. Reach out any time via in-app messaging or phone at 1-800-874-5881.

We offer the latest advice on how you can access the medications and services you need while protecting yourself from infection with COVID-19.

Navigating HIV Treatment and Prevention During COVID-19

Living with HIV during the COVID-19 pandemic

It’s been over six months since the first stay-at-home orders swept across the country, and we’re just beginning to replace widespread uncertainty about the coronavirus with real-world data. There’s still much we don’t know about how COVID-19 affects those living with HIV, but researchers are working quickly to glean insights from cases over the past months. 

Though our understanding is continually evolving and the data is limited, experts believe that people with HIV who are receiving treatment have the same risk for COVID-19 as the general population. We do know, however, that people with weakened immune systems are more likely to get severely sick from COVID-19, which underscores the already vital importance of preventing new HIV infections and ensuring access to treatment. 

If you are at risk of HIV infection or living with HIV, we encourage you to not put prevention or treatment on hold. It’s also crucial that you stick to the plan outlined by your doctor as closely as possible, especially by taking your medications correctly and on time. As your pharmacy, we’re here to help you overcome any challenges in maintaining your regimen that may arise. Let’s walk through the latest advice on how you can access the medications and services you need while protecting yourself from infection with COVID-19.

Is COVID-19 illness more severe in people living with HIV?

As we mentioned, when HIV is being treated, it does not seem to increase the risk of infection or severe illness. Those who are living with HIV and not on treatment or virally suppressed, however, may be at greater risk of COVID-19 complications. Additionally, older people living with HIV and those with other underlying health conditions may also be at greater risk of serious illness from COVID-19. It’s important to take precautions to protect yourself from COVID-19 infection by following CDC guidelines, such as wearing a mask, social distancing, and washing hands and high-touch surfaces often. 

We know that people living with HIV are more vulnerable to respiratory infections when their HIV is not well managed. That’s because their weakened immune systems may be unprepared to deal with an invading virus. For this reason, it’s incredibly important to continue your antiretroviral treatment (ART) as prescribed. If you are having difficulty continuing your treatment for any reason, talk with your healthcare provider right away.

What additional precautions should people living with HIV take?

The most important actions you can take for your health are to continue your HIV treatment and avoid potential exposure to the coronavirus. Follow the preventative guidelines outlined by the CDC to protect yourself and others from getting sick. Additionally, you should take the following precautions:

Keep your regular medical appointments and discuss ways you can reduce your risk of exposure to COVID-19 during your visits. Use telehealth services whenever possible; your doctor can advise you on the remote options available to you.

Keep at least a 30-day supply of your HIV medications on hand as well as any other medications or supplies you need to manage your health. If possible, ask for a three-month supply and choose a pharmacy that offers home delivery to avoid spending time in close contact with others while standing in lines. (Alto’s couriers will hand-deliver your medications to your doorstep, so you never have to worry about mail delays either!)

People living with HIV are at a higher risk of serious flu-related complications, make sure all your vaccinations are up-to-date, especially your flu shot.

The CDC recommends maintaining a healthy diet, aiming for 8 hours of sleep every night, and taking steps to reduce stress. 

If you start to feel sick, especially if you have a dry cough, fever, fatigue, and/or a loss of smell or taste, stay at home and contact your doctor immediately so you can determine your next steps. You will need to self-isolate to avoid spreading the coronavirus to others as you await instructions from your doctor. For this reason, we strongly recommend having a plan in place for if you get sick, including keeping 30 days’ worth of medications, food, and other supplies on hand.

How can I get tested for HIV during the COVID-19 pandemic?

It’s as important as ever to know your HIV status. If you’re at risk for HIV, talk to your healthcare provider about your options for getting tested. The CDC has stressed the importance of continued access to HIV testing and encourages people who are at risk for HIV infection to get tested in ways that support social distancing and stay-at-home orders (when they are in place), such as self-testing when possible. They have created this resource that lists self-testing services by state. You can also find in-person testing locations here. 

I’ve lost my insurance. How can I continue to get my HIV medication?

As we face this public health crisis, record numbers of people are also losing their jobs and employer-based coverage. If you’re currently uninsured or cannot afford your out-of-pocket costs, there are resources that can help. HIV.gov puts out this list of toll-free helplines that can help you find programs and services in your state to lower your treatment costs. They also list a variety of federal resources here. 

The AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP), which is part of the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program was created to help cover the cost of HIV-related prescription medications for people who have limited or no prescription drug coverage. Eligibility may vary by state, so find out more by using the ADAP Directory to identify your local program. 

How can I continue to access PrEP during the COVID-19 pandemic?

If you are at risk of HIV exposure, protecting yourself needs to remain a top priority. PrEP, or pre-exposure prophylaxis, is an HIV prevention method that's available by prescription. We explain more in our article, “All About PrEP for HIV Prevention.”

If you are already taking PrEP, talk to your provider about the possibility of telehealth options for the time being and see if you can get a prescription for a 90-day supply of PrEP. To find an in-person or online provider, visit one of the following websites:
PleasePrEPme.org
Greaterthan.org

If you need help paying for PrEP, there are assistance programs available that can cover the costs. PleasePrEPme.org maintains a comprehensive list of available resources here. 

What are some ways to cope with stress and anxiety right now?

It’s normal to experience heightened emotions during times of stress. And, unfortunately, some of the actions we are taking to protect ourselves, such as social distancing, can negatively impact our emotional well-being. Here are some ways you can protect your mental health and cope with the stress and uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Unplug when you need to. It’s important to stay informed, however, the constant cycle of news reports and social media updates can become all-consuming and overwhelming. Take breaks from your devices when necessary and try to focus on reliable news sources and avoid social media accounts and websites that may be spreading rumors or false information.

Find soothing activities and practice them daily. Maybe you turn to a calming classic like meditation when you need to recharge or perhaps nothing makes you happier than whipping up a batch of chocolate chip cookies from scratch. Whatever helps you unwind is good for your emotional well-being and overall health. 

Stay on top of your health and wellness. Stress can disrupt your usual healthy habits. Try to move your body frequently, incorporate healthy foods, and get a full night’s sleep. You may not succeed every day and that’s okay. Just do your best to keep up your healthy habits most of the time. 

Seek help if you need it. If feelings of fear, anger, sadness, worry, or numbness interfere with your responsibilities for several days in a row or if you find yourself turning to unhealthy coping strategies like drugs or alcohol, please reach out for help. The CDC offers this list of free and confidential resources.

We are committed to ensuring you receive your HIV medications safely and on time throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Our pharmacy locations are fully stocked, our couriers are ready, and our pharmacists can assist with coordinating early refills and longer fills. We offer free, contactless delivery, plus ongoing access to support and advice.  

Our HIV speciality team is available to answer your questions 9 am – 12 midnight ET Monday – Friday, and 10 am – 9 pm ET on weekends. Download the mobile app for secure messaging or call 1-800-874-5881. 

Rather than letting every cough or sniffle cause a panic, let’s sort through the most likely symptoms of the three respiratory illnesses to look out for this season: the cold, flu, and COVID-19.

Cold, Flu, or COVID-19? Your Seasonal Symptom Guide

For most of the year, we’ve had one virus on our minds. But as cold and flu season moves into full swing, an onslaught of new symptoms could sow confusion. Rather than letting every cough or sniffle cause a panic, let’s sort through the most likely symptoms of the three respiratory illnesses to look out for this season: the cold, flu, and COVID-19.

We can usually get an idea of what the flu season holds in store for us by studying recent flu activity in the Southern Hemisphere. This year, reported infection rates were 99% below normal, which epidemiologists credit to the fact that people were wearing masks, social distancing, and washing their hands frequently. The same precautions that prevent the spread of the coronavirus will also stop the flu (and the common cold too).

Still, experts are urging everyone to get their flu shot this year. More people getting sick could cause more than just confusion over symptoms. It could put a strain on testing supplies and medical care. Getting your flu shot will not only make you less likely to get sick with the flu, but it can also reduce the severity of your symptoms if you do get sick.

There’s a reason we call it “the common cold.” According to the American Lung Association, most adults come down with two to four colds per year. With more than 200 viruses that can cause the common cold floating around out there, it’s not all that surprising. Here are the main symptoms most cold sufferers can look forward to: 

The CDC reports that a cold usually begins gradually with a sore throat and a runny nose and then progresses to include coughing and sneezing. It is rare for cold symptoms to include fever, and diarrhea is not considered a symptom of a cold. 

There is no cure for the common cold, but most people recover within 7-10 days. The best way to feel better is to rest and drink plenty of fluids, although over-the-counter cold medications can help ease your symptoms. Since colds are contagious, try to be mindful and cover up when you cough or sneeze. 

The flu tends to hit us like a ton of bricks. Unlike the more gradual onset of a cold, flu symptoms are known to appear suddenly and with force. Along with a tell-tale fever often comes headaches, body aches, and a general feeling of exhaustion. 

The CDC reports that the following symptoms are common with the flu:

Vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children)

You may have noticed that the common cold shares some of these symptoms. Deciphering the differences is not always cut and dry. Generally, it’s that “hit by a bus” feeling that differentiates the flu. If you’re suddenly sidelined by a fever, chills, aches, and pains, you’re probably not dealing with a cold. It’s important to note, however, that not everyone experiences fever with the flu. 

Your healthcare provider can determine if you have the flu with a simple swab test. As with a cold, you should drink plenty of fluids and try to rest. You should feel better after a few days. Antiviral drugs can be used to reduce symptoms and shorten the amount of time you are sick. Antiviral medications are available by prescription only and work best when started soon after you get sick. When you send your prescription directly to Alto, we can make sure you get your flu medication delivered safely to your home that very same day. 

Here’s where our symptom detective work gets really tricky. Not only are the symptoms of COVID-19 all over the map, many of them closely mimic those of the flu. The coronavirus has confounded experts by showing up in strange and disparate ways. The only true way to know if you have symptoms of coronavirus infection is to get tested, but there are a few red flags to watch out for.

What’s so confusing is that COVID-19 is a respiratory illness like the cold and flu, but it’s not only a respiratory illness. Experts consider it to be a multi-organ disease. Symptoms may appear from head to toe, range from mild to severe, and often come on gradually. While there isn’t a clear set of symptoms that always distinguishes COVID-19, these four seem to be the most common:

The CDC also lists the following symptoms of COVID-19:

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Interestingly, a sudden loss of smell or taste seems to be emerging as a defining symptom of coronavirus infection. While it doesn’t occur in every patient, some studies have indicated that nearly 65% of people with COVID-19 experience this symptom. Additionally, while you may be accustomed to having your temperature checked when you visit a restaurant or store, fever is a common symptom of COVID-19, but by no means always present. About 55% of all infections are accompanied by a fever. 

The rule of thumb is this: if you think your symptoms could be COVID-19, you should act as if you’ve been infected until you can be tested. Call your doctor right away and self-quarantine while you monitor your symptoms and wait for further instructions. It’s crucial that you take every precaution to ensure you don’t transmit the virus to anyone else.  According to the CDC, you should also be on alert for more dangerous symptoms, which include trouble breathing, pain or pressure in the chest, bluish lips or face, confusion or incoherence, and an inability to wake or stay awake. Seek emergency medical care if any of these symptoms occur.

Coronavirus infections tend to last longer than the flu, but those with mild cases should recover on their own in about two weeks. Even if you have only mild symptoms, you need to call your doctor and self-quarantine immediately. With more severe cases, doctors may provide patients with intravenous fluids, medicines to reduce a fever, or oxygen to help with breathing.

If all you know is that you’re feeling terrible, give your doctor a call. Generally speaking, if you’re sniffly, sneezy, and slightly rundown, you’re probably battling the common cold. If you suddenly come down with a fever or chills, body aches, and heavy fatigue, the flu may be to blame. However, with COVID-19 so tricky to identify, it’s vital that you rule it out whenever troubling symptoms crop up. 

If you have questions about which medications can help you deal with your seasonal symptoms, our pharmacists are standing by. And if you do come down with the flu, we can hand-deliver your antiviral medication quickly and safely, while you stay home and get that all-important rest. 

Want Alto by your side this cold and flu season? Our team is available to answer your questions from 6 am - 9 pm PT Monday - Friday, and 7 am - 6 pm PT on weekends; reach out by phone 1-800-874-5881 or download the mobile app for secure messaging.

We don’t know exactly what COVID-19 will mean for this year’s cold and flu season, but it’s safe to say we should double down on our usual protective measures. Our pharmacists share their best tips for ensuring you stay healthy this fall.

Immunity-Boosting Tips for Fall

If you’re looking ahead to this year’s cold and flu season with uncertainty, you’re not alone. On the one hand, we’re wearing masks and social distancing. That should help, right? But on the other hand, we have another serious virus to contend with this season. According to Harvard Health Publishing, there are two main reasons we get sick more often in winter: we spend more time indoors with other people, and some viruses, like the flu, can stay airborne longer in colder weather. 

We don’t know exactly what COVID-19 will mean for this year’s cold and flu season, but it’s safe to say we should double down on our usual protective measures. That means washing our hands frequently, wearing a mask, social distancing, avoiding touching our face while we’re out and about, and getting a flu shot. It also means staying home when we experience cold symptoms to avoid spreading any type of virus. Preventing exposure is by far the best way to keep from getting sick. Despite our best efforts, however, illness-causing intruders can sometimes sneak past our defenses. It’s then that our immune systems must step up and fight.

Your immune system is an intricate network of organs, cells, and proteins that work together to defend the body from infection and disease. Due to its complexity, it’s better to focus on living a healthy lifestyle in general than to pin your hopes on a single supplement or superfood. That being said, recent research points to a few specific strategies that seem to hold promise in shoring up the body’s defenses. Let’s explore four healthy habits that might be worth adding to your immunity arsenal this fall.

Night owls, take note. Here’s one more reason to prioritize sleep—it’s a seriously powerful immune booster. According to the National Sleep Foundation, lack of sleep causes the body to make fewer cytokines, a specific protein that targets inflammation and infection. Plus, when you’re fatigued, your body releases stress hormones to keep you alert, which is known to have an immune-suppressing effect. Recent research has even revealed that sleep can enhance the efficiency of T-cells, a type of white blood cell that plays a critical role in fighting infection. In fact, a 2015 study found that people who slept seven hours or more every night were four times less likely to catch a cold than those who slept less than six. 

When it comes to immunity, we tend to think of bacteria as the bad guy. But we now know that nearly 70% of our immune system is located in our digestive tract and the beneficial bacteria and microorganisms in our gut play an important role in defending us from illness. In one study, workers who were given a daily dose of the probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri took 55% less sick days due to gastrointestinal or respiratory tract infections, suggesting it may be worth tending to our microbiota during cold and flu season. The simplest way to introduce more good bacteria into your body is by eating fermented foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, miso, and kombucha. Additionally, a diet rich in fiber and complex carbohydrates can help keep these friendly bacteria fed. 

As we journey toward winter and the days grow shorter and colder, we inevitably spend less time in the sun. Without direct sunlight on our skin, our body can’t produce vitamin D—one of the most important nutrients for our immune system. About 40% of U.S. adults are thought to be deficient in vitamin D and it’s not found in many foods, so it’s something you’ll want to consider supplementing throughout the colder months. Studies have found that taking this immune enhancer daily significantly reduces the risk of getting sick with the common cold or flu. The recommended daily dose is 600 IU for children and adults aged 1 to 70 years and 800 IU for people over 70.

Exercise is one of the best ways to increase circulation, which helps infection-fighting white blood cells and antibodies travel where they’re needed. A good sweat can also reduce the levels of immune-suppressing stress hormones in the body and increase overall health and vitality. A study following 1,000 people during the fall and winter months found that those who exercised at least five days a week were nearly half as likely to develop an upper respiratory infection as those who were sedentary. Plus, when regular exercisers did get sick, their symptoms were greatly diminished. Just be aware that when it comes to exercise, more isn’t always better. Don’t go so hard that you over stress your body; aim for 30-60 minutes of moderate exercise every day. 

While these immune-boosting strategies are helpful at any time of year, fall is an especially important time to put them into play. We want our bodies’ defenses to be as strong as possible to guard against viral invaders and help us rebound more quickly if we do catch a cold or flu.

Remember—the best way to stay healthy this season is to limit your chances of being exposed to a virus. If you start feeling sick, help keep others safe by staying home and reporting your symptoms to your doctor. Mild symptoms can usually be treated with simple rest and self-care, however, if your doctor prescribes an antiviral medication, there’s no need to drag yourself out of bed. We’ll hand-deliver it to your door for free. 

Alto can make the whole prescription process easier. Let us show you how. Our team is available to answer your questions from 6 am - 9 pm PT Monday - Friday, and 7 am - 6 pm PT on weekends; reach out by phone at 1-800-874-5881 or download the mobile app for secure messaging.

Update from the Alto team, March 17th, 2020: 
As the spread of COVID-19 continues to impact daily routines in the communities we serve, Alto remains open and ready to deliver your medications safely to your door. Our pharmacy locations are fully stocked, our couriers are ready, and our pharmacists can assist with coordinating early refills and longer fills to ensure you have access to your medications throughout this period. Reach out to our care team by calling  1 (800) 874-5881 or via secure message on our mobile app. Delivery is always free; we're here to help.

Worried about coronavirus? 
Here’s what our pharmacists want you to know.

As the news continues to unfold about COVID-19 (also known as coronavirus) and its spread in our communities, you’re likely making preparations for you and your family’s medical needs.

Our pharmacists are here to help. Here are their recommendations for staying healthy, but we also recommend following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and World Health Organization and checking their sites regularly for updates.

COVID-19 spreads much like the common cold or flu. The virus that causes COVID-19 is passed from person to person through close personal contact (things like touching or shaking hands), coughing, sneezing, or touching a surface with the virus on it and then touching your eyes, nose or mouth without washing your hands.

Though everyone is at risk for becoming infected, elderly patients and patients with diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease have been shown to be at higher risk for severe symptoms. This may change as we understand the disease more.

Symptoms range greatly and can begin to appear two to fourteen days after exposure. Fever and cough are the most common, although some individuals will have no symptoms and others may experience severe difficulty breathing and other respiratory issues. Given that this outbreak coincides with cold and flu season, it may be difficult to differentiate between the diseases.

Wash your hands! Often, vigorously, and with soap and water for at least 30 seconds. If soap and water aren’t available, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands. 

Disinfect surfaces and commonly used objects regularly with bleach or chlorine.

Avoid close personal contact with people who are sick or who may have been exposed to the virus. Stay away from work, school or other high-traffic areas if you begin to exhibit symptoms like fever and cough.

Alto’s free home delivery service and automatic refills mean you don’t have to add worrying about your medication supply or going out in public to your list of precautionary measures. We’ll make sure you have the prescriptions you need on schedule. Stocking up on cold medicine or other over the counter medications? Our pharmacists can add those to your next delivery.

Our team is available 9 am - 9 pm PT Monday - Friday and 10 am - 6 pm PT on weekends; reach out via phone or the app.

If you think you’ve been exposed to COVID-19, contact your healthcare provider via phone or other digital means. Do not go to your healthcare provider’s office in person if you believe you may be exhibiting symptoms from exposure as public health officials will need to coordinate necessary precautions for staff and other patients.

From Your Pharmacy: What You Need to Know About Coronavirus

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