Kristina K. Carlton
> On a slightly different subject, I have finally gotten over my cough
> and body aches and have gotten my energy back after 2 weeks but still 
> have pain in the right side of my throat and my right ear when I 
> swallow. I also still have a somewhat stuffy nose. This "cold", if 
> that is what it is, started on 12/25. I can't remember the last time I 
> had a cold but I know it didn't last this long. Could eliminating ALL 
> carbs help the healing process?
> 
> I would rather not see a doctor and be told to take meds (we also
> don't have health insurance yet due to our recent
> relocation) but the continued pain in my throat is starting
> to concern me. I assume that if it were strep it would have 
> gotten worse by now and it's a virus versus a bacterial 
> infection. However, it's been going on for about 10 days now. 
> Any thoughts?
> 
> Kristina
> 

Colds tend to last 1-2 weeks. It is rare for them to last longer than that
(only 1/4 of colds last 2 weeks). Bacterial infections can last longer and
can occur during or after a cold. For example, acute sinusitis is often
caused by a bacterial infection and usually develops after a viral
respiratory infection such as the common cold. Acute sinusitis can last for
a few weeks. I'm not a doctor and I can't diagnose you over the Internet. In
order to get a diagnosis you do have to go to a doctor. You could think of
the expense as an investment in your health--and a possible tax deduction if
you itemize.

> Just one.....  Go get a throat culture..... Strep is not something with
which you can fool.    Oliva

Good advice.


> I am averaging about 1500 calories per day.  - Jim

That's pretty low. I hope that is a temporary calorie level. The relatively
short and skinny !Kung San average 2,140 calories per day.