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The Queen sparked concern among royal fans and the public when a member of her security team said she was not “feeling up to” attending her yearly meeting at Women’s Institute branch in
Sandringham on Thursday. Express.co.uk understands the Queen is suffering from a slight cold. While the monarch is surely being taken good care of by the best specialists, one medical expert
warned colds are not to be shrugged off by the elderly, as they could pave the way to more serious conditions. Pharmacist Shamir Patel, founder of Chemist 4 U, told Express.co.uk: “When
your body is young, fit and healthy, it’s often no problem to fight off a light cold, but in an elderly person, it poses a higher risk. “A common cold can last much longer, and is also more
likely to lead to something more serious. “It’s therefore important that a cold in the elderly is treated properly. “The sooner the symptoms are treated, the better, as it will help to
minimise any complications, such as pneumonia - which is one of the top ten leading causes of death among the elderly. “The signs include a headache, fever, dry cough, muscle pain and
exhaustion. “A common cold can also pose the threat of other conditions becoming worse, such as asthma, heart disease and COPD, while patients are also more likely to become dehydrated,
especially when they live an active lifestyle.” Mr Patel suggested the Queen did the right thing when she decided to take a day off on Thursday, as “plenty of rest” is one of the best
treatments for a cold. READ MORE: KATE MIDDLETON HEARTBREAK: HOW DUCHESS 'MISSED OUT ON DREAM CAREER' He added: “A decongestant can be taken to reduce swelling within the nasal
passageways, such as a nasal spray. “Antihistamines will also help to relieve the sneezing and itching. “Drinking plenty of fluids and resting are also vital.” DON'T MISS After the
Queen’s decision to pull out of the event, just 30 minutes before it was due to start, was made public, royal fans took to Twitter to share their worries and best wishes. One wrote: “Well
wishes sent to HRM. Hopefully, she’ll feel better soon.” Another said: “Let’s hope that it’s nothing too serious as she’s served her country well. As has #Philip. “At their age they have
to be careful with colds etc. Get well soon Majesty”. Another added: “Hope she is OK and on the mend soon”. The Queen, who is spending her winter break in Sandringham and is due to remain in
Norfolk until February 6, was to head to the West Newton Village hall and gather with members of the Women’s Institute to listen to a speech delivered by BBC newsreader Huw Edwards. The
Queen has been visiting the Women’s Institute every year since 1943, when she was passed on the presidency from her mother, the Queen Mother - who had received it from Queen Mary, widow of
King George V. The Queen was last seen in public on Sunday, when she attended service with Prince Andrew at St Mary the Virgin church. Her Majesty’s diary has been rather free from
engagements in the past weeks. The next event she is due to attend is on February 3 when, according to the Royal Diary, she will visit the Royal Air Force Marham station and airbase, just a
30-minute drive away from Sandringham Estate.