There’s no denying it: flu season has arrived. Beginning in October and lasting through springtime, its victims experience pain from aches, congestion, coughing and fevers. Unfortunately for New Jerseyans alike, influenza has taken its toll this year and if you missed getting your flu shot earlier it might still be beneficial; but don’t wait if you want to avoid getting it altogether – consider these strategies for managing flu-like symptoms instead. DrCure.com understands the significance and challenges associated with your health are paramount, which is why they’re here. With an intuitive platform designed for quick accessing of relevant medical information quickly and effortlessly – be it guidance, alternative treatments or advice on living your healthily – DrCure can offer Flu symptoms invaluable help and advice!
Influenza is a highly infectious respiratory illness which attacks your respiratory system. Inflationary epidemics such as this year’s flu outbreak were devastatingly disruptive and affected those at greatest risk the hardest; particularly older children, babies less than one year old and people with compromised immune systems that could face potentially life-threatening consequences of infection.
When the flu hits you and your family
Once you’ve contracted an illness such as influenza, its effects will quickly manifest themselves. Even if your overall health is good, virus attacks can strike at any moment; be prepared and be on the lookout for any possible complications that may arise.
Here are a few ideas to help alleviate symptoms and constipation return you to good health.
Rest at home
Finally, the last step you should take is to stay home and rest up. In order to protect others and build up immunity against other infections, make sure you take this time off of work or school and rest as much as you are able. Ideally this should mean sleeping as long as you can in bed, on your couch, in your chair and watching television; remember it’s crucial that your body can gain strength against this invader!
Drink plenty of fluids
When sick, make sure you drink enough fluids – water is often best as its simple nature makes it unappetizing and won’t have any taste at all common cold anyway! But herbal teas, warm broths and warm fluids may also provide relief; ensure to increase fluid intake to combat dehydration and minimize mucus production.
Take a steamy shower
Fever is the body’s natural response to being attacked by flu virus, and can be treated by taking medications designed to lower fever such as Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen.
If you’re congested and coughing, nothing beats a steamy shower for relieving congestion. Make sure the heat is high enough not to become chilled as you let the steam dissipate; use shower tabs from drug stores or grocery stores which release eucalyptus and menthol into the steam stream, clearing your airways while soothing coughs. Or DIY it by adding essential oil or over-the-counter chest rub to a clean washcloth then submerging into hot water to let steam build-up clear congestion.
Go for cough control
Coughing fits can make it hard to relax, so try resting in a semi-reclining position and applying a soothing chest rub from a medical provider; they’re extremely calming. In addition, use cough medicine in combination with an expectorant for additional support in coughing up mucus and relieving chest congestion.
Relieve sinus pressure and swelling
Opting for an over-the-counter nasal spray composed of saline can help unclog your nose without drying out your membranes, reduce mucus production, and blow your nose more effectively than medicated sprays currently available. Saline nasal sprays should only be used as needed.
Eat something healthy
No matter how sick they may feel, no one likes cooking and eating large meals when sick; but proper nutrition can keep your strength up. Light meals such as applesauce with freshly picked fruit, crackers and cheese, or the classic comforting chicken soup from grandmas may suffice at first, then as soon as your appetite returns and taste improves you can indulge in something heartier as soon as it hits.
Reaching out quickly is especially essential if your child has weak immune systems and exhibits signs of flu-like illness. Furthermore, older persons and those suffering from HIV, diabetes or cardiovascular conditions must contact our office immediately if experiencing flu-like symptoms.
