The flu is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the influenza virus. It can easily be prevented by getting the flu influenza vaccine and following a few flu prevention tips.
Flu symptoms typically last about a week (though it might feel like an eternity). The best thing you can do to recover from the flu is to get plenty of sleep, keep activities to a minimum (get your family to pick up the slack), and drink lots of fluids.
Coming down with the flu can be downright miserable. Here are 8 tips on how to treat Flu and to help you recover more quickly.
1. Stay home
Stay home from work or school and put “life” on hold until you have recovered. By staying home, you will also reduce the rate of exposure.
2. Stay Hydrated
One symptom of the flu is a high fever, which can lead to sweating. Your body needs plenty of fluids to replace lost liquids, and even more to fight off the infection. Drink plenty of water.
3. Sleep A lot
Sleep is the best medicine for your body while fighting the flu. Rest and sleep also reduce your risk of serious flu complications, like pneumonia.
4. Get Comfortable
Ease sinus pressure and congestion by sleeping with your head propped up, using a humidifier, or taking a hot shower to loosen up congestion.
5. Eat healthily
Fresh fruits and vegetables provide important vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that strengthen your immune system as it fights off the virus.
6. Forget exercise
Stay home and leave exercise for later. If you overexert your body while it’s trying to fight the flu, you run the risk of extending the duration of your sickness and/or making it worse.
7. Use a humidifier
Dry air can make your symptoms worse. A vaporizer or humidifier adds moisture to the air and can help loosen up congestion.
8. Take OTC medications
The cold and flu aisle of your local drug store is packed with different options, so read the medication descriptions carefully to ensure that they can relieve your particular symptoms. Don’t overlap medicines treating the same symptom. Also, be sure to take vitamins to boost your immune system.
9. Get a flu vaccination
Getting your Winter Flu Jab is the best way to prevent the flu. If you’ve already had the flu, it’s still a good idea to get the Flu Vaccination in the UK which is available at your local Flu Vaccination Service providers which should also have the Child flu vaccine available to protect your child from getting the flu while at school.
Common Flu vaccine side effects include soreness at the injection spot, headache, fever, nausea, and muscle aches.
Anna Pharmacy Group is dedicated to serving the community to provide innovative healthcare and improve your quality of life. Look to us for all your healthcare needs.