You might be diligent about getting your annual flu shot, and that’s a great safeguard against seasonal illness. But did you know that cold and flu viruses can also impact your oral and vision health?
While most people focus on how the flu affects the respiratory system, it can also take a toll on other unexpected parts of the body, including your teeth and eyes.
Unfortunately, illness isn’t always avoidable, especially during the fall and winter when flu cases tend to spike. In fact, an estimated 40 million Americans contracted the flu during the 2023-2024 season, according to the Centers for Disease Control.
So, there is no better time to give your overall health some extra attention. Here are a few tips to help you do just that.
To start, Altus Dental has teamed up with AAA Northeast to offer exclusive dental and vision coverage in Massachusetts, making it even easier to prioritize your smile and eyes.
Protecting Your Oral Health During Flu and Cold Season
Stay Up-To-Date on Exams
One of the best ways to maintain your oral health all year long is to continue your normal oral hygiene regimen. Floss and brush regularly and try to schedule a preventive exam prior to peak flu season.
Stay Hydrated
Nasal congestion can result in mouth breathing, leading to dry mouth. Mouth breathing dries out saliva, putting you at greater risk of cavities. Since decongestants also can dry out your mouth, it’s important to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Switch to Sugar-Free Cough Drops
Coughing can cover teeth in acid, and cough drops can create perfect conditions for bacteria to thrive in. To protect oral health during flu season, switch to sugar-free cough drops and rinse your mouth after taking any medicine.
Start Fresh When You Recover
Don’t forget to replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months, continue drinking water and be sure to schedule dental checkups twice a year. Exclusive savings on dental insurance with Altus Dental allows AAA members living in Massachusetts to get comprehensive dental coverage at affordable prices.
Protecting Your Vision Health During Flu and Cold Season
Keep Up With Your Routine
Just like dental exams, it’s essential to keep up with annual vision tests. And don’t hesitate to see a doctor if you experience persistent symptoms such as dry, itchy or watery eyes during flu and cold season.
Take Precautions
Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your eyes and face if you are sick to prevent contracting and spreading viruses. Contact lens users need to be extra cautious when removing or inserting lenses. Make sure to wash your hands first and rinse your lenses thoroughly with saline. If you wear glasses, sanitize them to further protect your face and eyes. With vision coverage from Altus Dental, exclusively for AAA Northeast members in Massachusetts, you can save on eye exams and glasses, including lens enhancements.
Soothe Tired Eyes
Use non-medicated moistening drops or press a cold compress over your eyes for several minutes if your eyes feel dry or irritated. If eye symptoms become more serious or persist after you recover, call your eye care professional for an appointment.
Your teeth and eyes function in harmony with the rest of your body. Supporting each part contributes to your overall well-being.
Learn more about how dental and vision plans from Altus Dental offer AAA members living in Massachusetts easily accessible dental and eye care at affordable prices.
Ellen is a content producer for AAA Northeast, covering automotive, finance, public affairs and electric vehicle news. She is a former newspaper reporter with experience writing for print and online publications about everything from higher education to sustainability. She recently returned to her native Long Island after living in Connecticut for 20-plus years, and has never met a beach she didn’t like.
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