When it comes to surviving flu season, prevention is always the best medicine. Flu shots are recommended early in the season and use of anti-bacterial hand wash, face masks, and proper hand washing techniques can also lessen the risk.
While there are no quick fixes for the flu, there are some helpful tips to help ease symptoms and boost your body’s immune system to fight off the virus.
Stay hydrated – Sip lots of clear liquids like water or apple juice. Remember to sip, this allows your weakened body to process fluids better.
Rest – Try to sleep as much as possible. Stay in bed or relax on the couch, or chair. This is one of the best things you can do for your body.
OTC drugs – Alleviate muscle aches, headache, and fever using Tylenol. Cough medications can ease throat pain.
Contact a doctor – If you remain sick with symptoms for longer than a week or your fever does not reduce, contact your physician. While they may not be able to give you anything to get rid of the flu, doctors can do a quick check-up to make sure the flu is your only problem.
If you do contract the flu stay home from work or school. The flu is highly contagious from the day symptoms start until roughly a week after. Also, do your best to stay away from children and the elderly. These two age groups are highly susceptible and their bodies cannot process the illness the same way a healthy adult can.
If you have a chronic respiratory condition, asthma, COPD, or heart disease, it is recommended that you contact a doctor if you feel you may have contracted the flu.