Cold/Flu
Description
While it's normal to catch a cold occasionally, getting sick several times a year—or taking longer than usual to recover—can point to a deeper problem in the immune system. In functional medicine, frequent infections are often signs of nutrient deficiencies, gut imbalances, chronic stress, environmental toxicants, or hidden infections (like mold, Epstein-Barr, or Lyme). Supporting the body's defenses means more than just boosting immunity—it requires evaluating all the factors that influence immune resilience, from diet and sleep to gut health and chronic inflammation. Functional medicine offers a holistic plan to reduce illness frequency and support long-term immune strength.
Symptoms
More than 3–4 colds per year
Persistent or recurrent sinus infections
Slow recovery after illness
Frequent bronchitis or ear infections
Fatigue or brain fog following illness
Swollen lymph nodes
Low-grade fevers
White spots on tonsils or chronic sore throat
Labs & Testing Options
CBC with differential
Immunoglobulin panel (IgG, IgA, IgM)
Nutrient testing (zinc, vitamin D, B12, iron)
Stool test for dysbiosis or candida
Food sensitivity testing
Adrenal cortisol rhythm testing
Mold/mycotoxin testing
Chronic viral panel (EBV, CMV, HSV)
Treatment Options
Nutrient repletion (especially zinc, D3, C, and B vitamins)
Herbal immune modulators (elderberry, echinacea, astragalus, medicinal mushrooms)
Probiotics and gut restoration protocols
Anti-inflammatory diet
Stress and adrenal support
Mold or toxin detox (if applicable)
Lymphatic and drainage support
Ozone or IV therapies for immune stimulation
Break the cycle of chronic illness—find out what’s weakening your immune system and start rebuilding your defenses today.