Flu cases are on the rise these days. Seasonal flu is caused by influenza viruses and is primarily treated with vaccination. That’s why most of us recover in a matter of days.
Though it recovers quickly, we must manage its symptoms because it can disrupt our daily activities and reduce our quality of life.
Here are some pointers to help you manage yourself at home.
Influenza Symptoms
When the flu virus enters our bodies, we may experience -Fever.
-Runny nose -Stuffy nose
-Aches and pains -Cough (whether dry or wet) AND
-Throat ache
To alleviate these symptoms, you must take medications and, of course, practice some home remedies.
Tips for self-care and home remedies for flu symptoms
-Paracetamol is relatively safe for all patients when used to treat fever, aches, and pains. If you want to take other analgesics, talk to your doctor or pharmacist first.
-Pseudoephedrine-containing medications can be used to treat nasal congestion.
-Antihistamines such as Cetirizine or Diphenhydramine can help with runny nose.
-To treat a cough,
If you have a dry cough, take a cough suppressant containing Dextromethorphan. Cough expectorants can help you cough productively.
Other self-care suggestions
-Get plenty of sleep.
Seasonal flu is extremely contagious. It is preferable not to go outside and to remain in separate rooms at home.
-Increase your water consumption.
Fluids such as chicken broth, green tea, and ORS all help with the flu. You will feel better if you drink frequently. They can lower body temperature, thin phlegm, and soothe a sore throat.
-Soak in a warm bath.
Warm water can be used to relieve aches and pains and to flush a stuffy nose.
-Start the humidifier.
Humidifiers can moisten your throat and help relieve sore throats and coughs.
-Use the lozenges.
Lozenges can help you with a scratchy throat as well as a cough.
-Rinse your mouth with salty water.
Warm, salty water can kill viruses and soothe a scratchy, sore throat. It can also help with inflammation.
What you should keep in mind is that, even though the medications mentioned above are all over-the-counter, you should read the leaflets or instructions carefully.
-Flu medications are available in combinations such as fever + runny nose and cough + runny nose. To avoid an overdose, if you must take more than one medication, make sure that the medications do not overlap.
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Although the flu usually clears up within a few days, the following symptoms should prompt you to seek medical attention.
After 10 days, symptoms that persist or worsen.
Breathing difficulties
For three or more days, you have a high fever (greater than 102°F).
You are experiencing chest pain.
coughing blood.
feeling dizzy.
Excessive vomiting.
Confusion.
Neck or jaw glands that are swollen.
