The influenza virus, which is responsible for the flu, is a highly transmissible respiratory infection. Generally, flu symptoms remain for around a week, and the most severe ones persist for longer. The persistent coughing, muscle aches, and vulnerable sensation can make you feel hopeless.
Even when the infection seemingly wears off, you might continue to feel weak and experience a cough or runny nose for another week or so. Fortunately, there are a variety of approaches to deal with such health conditions to regain good health.
Sometimes, all it takes to get well from the flu is to sip on a few cups of tea and use a heating pad for any aches and pains. Still, if that does not work, there are additional alternative recovery techniques that can help you get better and return to everyday life in good health. The following are a few tips that can help you.
Rest at Home
Unquestionably, your regular routine will need to be put on hold, given that your system requires time and energy to fight off the virus causing the flu. You might want to continue engaging in your day-to-day activities; however, doing so can be unfavorable to yourself. It is advisable to stay home instead of going to school or work and postpone all your running errands until your condition improves.
Resting at home not only helps in your recovery but also prevents the flu from spreading across your neighborhood or workplace. It is essential to limit your interactions with others while you are infected. In addition, you should constantly sanitize the surfaces and personal things since the flu can be particularly challenging for older adults and young children.
Stay Hydrated
High temperatures are a common symptom of the flu, which can result in excessive sweating. In addition, you may suffer from diarrhea or vomiting. In such instances, your body will call for excessive fluids to recover the lost fluids and fight the infection.
Of course, it is evident that water is the best kind of fluid for the body, but you can also try herbal teas or teas sweetened with honey. These can help in relieving your discomfort while keeping you hydrated. On the other hand, it is not advisable to consume alcohol and caffeine, particularly when you are sick.
Sleep As Much As Possible
The most effective remedy when you have the flu is sleep since your body requires proper rest. Curling up on the couch while watching something you enjoy is an excellent way to rest. However, be sure to sleep without staying up for too long since you are not in your best health. You can also consider napping during the day for your body to have more time to heal.
Moreover, the possibility of developing severe flu complications, like pneumonia, is decreased by proper rest and sleep.
Better Breathing
Sleeping can be tricky if you are suffering from a cough and congested nose. The following are a few tips that can help you with easier breathing and better sleep.
- Place a cushion under your head to support it and reduce the nasal pressure.
- Use a vaporizer or humidifier, if necessary, when you go to sleep.
- Enjoy a hot bath or shower before heading to bed.
Eat Nutritious Food
Your body requires good nourishment to recover from the flu, regardless of your temptation to enjoy unhealthy food items like ice cream or chips. Essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants in fresh fruits and vegetables can support your immune system while fighting the virus. So, it is vital to eat nutritious food regularly to stay fit, even if you don’t have an appetite.
Increase the Air’s Humidity
Dry air can aggravate the already irritating symptoms of the flu. You can add moisture to the air using a vaporizer or humidifier to help clear the congestion. You can find various humidifiers and vaporizers, such as steam vaporizers, cool-mist humidifiers, and similar gadgets, at your local store, pharmacy, or online.
Get the Flu Shot
The annual flu vaccination is developed with the help of forecasts made by experts regarding which flu strain is likely to dominate the upcoming flu season. However, occasionally they do make mistakes.
After getting the flu, getting a shot can safeguard you from further virus strains. You might think it’s too late, or you might be sure you cannot get the flu twice a season, but it is possible. Therefore, it is advisable to get yourself vaccinated.
Consider OTC Drugs
Your local drug store’s cold and flu section has hundreds of drug options. While specific drugs address only one flu symptom at a time, such as nasal congestion, others address several flu symptoms simultaneously, such as;
- Pain killers – These drugs can be used for several ailments, including fever, headaches, and body pains. Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) are two kinds of pain killers.
- Decongestants – Aid in opening nasal passages and releasing sinus pressure.
- Cough suppressants – Treat dry cough.
- Expectorants – Treat wet, mucus-producing coughs as they can release dense mucus.
- Antihistamines – The soothing effect helps improve sleep quality.
Read the product label carefully to understand the recommended dose for each drug to prevent unknowingly combining medication. Or better yet, consult a doctor to get the right combination of drugs.
Take Honey for Cough
Honey is a common natural cure that has been used for decades to soothe a sore throat or cough. According to a study, children with upper respiratory tract infections between the ages of two and eighteen responded better to a dose of honey than standard cough suppressants to manage their overnight cough. You can add a spoonful of honey with tea to reduce your flu symptoms and stay hydrated. However, keep in mind that honey is not recommended for kids under a year old!
Consider Anti-Virals
Those at a high risk of flu-related complications may only be able to get better by taking anti-viral medications since they can prevent the virus from reproducing or spreading. However, it is advisable to contact a doctor first since anti-viral medicines are only available with a prescription, and you should not consume such powerful drugs on a whim. These medications must be taken within 48 hours of experiencing symptoms for best results.
Stay Positive
We often fail to understand the extent to which our attitudes and emotions impact how we physically feel. A positive attitude throughout your illness can help your overall recovery despite having a stuffy nose or high temperature with body pains!
