4 Common Flu Symptoms And Their Remedies

In 2018, India reported over 5,500 cases of Influenza. The highly contagious viral infection can affect children and adults of all ages causing outbreaks in different areas of the country. Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is more widespread during the winter months. If left untreated, the flu can lead to more serious conditions like pneumonia, inflammation of vital organs, and depletion of oxygen supply to the body.

These Are A Few Symptoms Of Influenza:

Fever:

The flu virus causes an immune reaction in the body which in turn results in a high fever.

Runny Nose And Sneezing:

A common flu symptom is a runny or stuffy nose accompanied by bouts of sneezing.

Cough And Sore Throat:

A sore and painful throat with a persistent cough along with the other symptoms are an indication that you might have the flu.

Body Ache And Headache:

body ache and weak muscles can be caused by the flu virus. Headaches also occur commonly with the infection.

Tiredness:

Feeling tired all the time with no energy to do anything is a tell-tale symptom of influenza when accompanied by fever and body ache.

If you experience high fever with any of the other symptoms, there is a very good chance that you have influenza and should see a doctor.

Treatment Of Influenza

Once a doctor has diagnosed you with the infection, he/she will prescribe a course of medication. The medicines usually include something to bring the fever down, an antibiotic to prevent secondary infections, and supplements to keep your strength up. Follow the doctor’s instructions carefully and take the medication as prescribed.

Besides the medicines there are home remedies that you can try to recover faster:

• An ice pack or cold compress placed on the forehead can help bring the fever down.
• Consuming fluids like water, soup and juice can prevent dehydration.
• Green tea with honey, ginger and lemon can clear a stuffy nose and soothe a sore throat.
• Getting sufficient rest is necessary to let the body fight the infection.
• Steam inhalation works very well to clear up blocked sinuses and help you breathe more easily.

These simple home remedies will give your immune system a fighting chance at getting rid of the infection.

Prevention Of The Flu

It is a well-known fact that prevention is better than cure and the same goes for the flu as well. A few simple actions added to the daily routine can help prevent the infection during flu season. Because the influenza virus is contagious and spreads through close contact with a patient, it helps to keep children and elderly family members at a safe distance.

If you or a caregiver has to come in direct contact with the patient make sure to wear a face mask to prevent inhaling the virus particles. Make sure to always wash your hands thoroughly with soap after coming in contact with a flu patient or even when coming home from outside. Also, talk to your doctor about the flu vaccine and ask if you and your kids should take it. These few precautions can help prevent the spread of influenza within your home and neighbourhood and safeguard health of your loved ones.