The flu, also known as influenza, can stop the mightiest of us in our tracks. The goal for most sufferers is to remedy flu symptoms and quickly return to normal activity, though recovery may take a week or more.
Some flu symptom remedies reduce flu symptoms while others may shorten flu’s course or preempt complications. Following are ten ways to combat flu symptoms and aide you on the return path to good health.
Relief from Flu Symptoms Tip #1: Know What You are Treating
Cold versus Flu Symptoms: Differentiating a bad cold from the flu can be tricky, and other causes, such as medications, can produce flu-like symptoms.
The flu tends to: hit hard and quick, prompt a higher fever, and include more severe body aches, chills, and/or respiratory symptoms. Check with local and national public health organization for the latest flu news. (See also: Flustar.com Flu Reports)
Relief from Flu Symptoms Tip #2: Antivirals, Talk to Your Doctor Early
Some patients are advised to take antiviral medications (e.g. Tamiflu) to both limit the duration of flu symptoms and help thwart flu complications such as pneumonia. The risks and benefits of these treatments vary for each individual.
If possible, talk to your doctor about flu treatment options before the heavy flu season hits to learn how you should respond to flu symptoms. A standing order or quick response may be made available, to include when the doctor is unavailable. (See also: When to Use Antivirals for the Flu, CDC)
Relief from Flu Symptoms Tip #3: OTC Medications – One Size Doesn’t Fit All
A plethora of over-the-counter (OTC) combination medication exists for flu symptoms, but which is the right one to take? Talk to the pharmacist for frontline advice. Otherwise focus on the flu symptoms of most concern.
While combination flu medication is convenient, separate medications, such as one for pain/fever and another for respiratory symptoms, may work better. This tailored approach eliminates unneeded or unhelpful flu symptom treatments and allows targeted dosing for more bothersome flu symptoms. (See also: Cold and Flu Guidelines, by the American Lung Association)
Relief from Flu Symptoms Tip #4: Productive Cough and The Super Hero Blow
Regular mucus elimination promotes a better resistance to bacterial complications and prolonged respiratory illness. Expectorants and decongestants help but their value is largely dependent on regular and proper coughing and nose blowing.
Conversely, a persistent or strenuous cough may aggravate a sour throat and cause other damage. Try to make the most out of productive coughs while monitoring the cough frequency, and addressing it as a separate flu symptom (i.e. cough suppression), if needed.
Deeper breaths and adequate force is needed. [Younger kids may be motivated by encouragement. One way is for kids to portray the Hulk (or their favorite tough guy) whereas they inhale, make a powerful/angry face, and blow out of each nostril separately as you assist them.]
Relief from Flu Symptoms Tip #5: Sleep Promotes Healing
Sleep is essential for a healthy immune system function, and extra rest is needed to better combat heavy germ loads. If flu symptoms prevent adequate sleep, consider a night-time medication that is approved by your health professional. Alternatively, try reading or other relaxation techniques when needed.
Relief from Flu Symptoms Tip #6: Power of the Warm Bath
Serving double duty on flu symptoms, a warm bath can help ease body aches while the moisture works on loosening congestion. (See also: Chills)
Relief from Flu Symptoms Tip #7: Battling Chills and Sweats
Chills are the result of fever and the body’s attempt at temperature control. When addressing chills pay attention to over-heating and sweating (wet clothes) which can worsen this most bothersome flu symptom. Address fever, keep dry and try layers for best results or as otherwise directed by a physician for severe chills and fever.
Relief from Flu Symptoms Tip #8: Water and Hydration
Unless you have the stomach flu, fluid intake should not be too difficult. Water helps to both promote recovery and eliminate bacteria or mucus. Further, both fever and some flu medications can be quite drying which, if not addressed, may lead to dehydration or mineral and other imbalances.
Relief from Flu Symptoms Tip #9 Avoid Unproven Natural Remedies
Some natural remedies may work on flu symptoms and these can be useful. Gargling with saltwater, for instance, is generally safe and may bring some welcome flu symptom relief. Alternatively, treating fever and bronchitis with an unproven remedy is taking a chance with your health.
Note that professional advice is often as important for natural remedies as it is with conventional treatments. (See also: Good Home Treatment of Influenza, by savethechildren.org for a comprehensive home flu care manual. )
Flu Symptom Relief Tip # 10: Listen to Your Body
Generally, an otherwise healthy body is self-regulating and flu symptoms are a call that something needs attention. Ignoring the body’s demands for rest and pain relief can make symptoms worse.
Note the difference between treating the symptom and the cause. For instance, a sore throat may be manageable without pain relief but a frequent cough (the cause of the pain) may cause additional problems. Overall, the body may be the best dictator of what works best to treat cold and flu symptoms.
(For informational purpose only, consult a health care provider before undertaking any medical treatment.)
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Prevent the Common Cold and Viruses This Year
Disinfecting Your Home After the Flu
