Influenza is a common illness caused by the influenza virus that can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, body aches, cough, and congestion. While the flu can be annoying, it usually resolves on its own within a few days to a week. However, there are steps you can take to treat the flu at home and relieve your symptoms.
In this guide, we'll explore home remedies for the common cold that can help you feel better while recovering from the flu. These home flu tips include getting plenty of rest, staying hydrated, controlling fever and body aches, relieving cough and congestion, and practicing good hygiene to prevent the spread of the virus. By following these steps, you can help your body fight off the flu and feel better in no time.
What is the flu and how to treat the flu virus at home
The flu, short for influenza, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. It can affect people of all ages and can lead to a range of symptoms, from mild to severe. The symptoms of the flu typically include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, fatigue, and sometimes nausea and vomiting.
The flu is spread through contact with respiratory droplets from infected individuals when they cough, sneeze, or talk. It can also be spread by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.
While most people recover from the flu within a week or two without any complications, it can lead to serious complications, especially for people with weakened immune systems, the elderly, and young children. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the flu, but there are also treatments available to manage the symptoms and help your body fight off the infection.
Symptoms of influenza
- Fever: High fever is a characteristic symptom of influenza. Fever is usually higher than 100.4 F (38 C).
- Body aches: Body aches, including headaches and muscle aches, are common in people with the flu.
- Cough: A dry cough is another common symptom of the flu. It can be severe and persistent.
- Sore throat: Many people with the flu experience a sore throat, which can be mild or severe.
- Fatigue: Feeling very tired or worn out is a common symptom of the flu.
- Congestion and runny nose: Some people with the flu experience congestion, stuffy or runny nose, and sinus pressure.
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea: Some people, especially children, may experience nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
How to treat the flu at home
- Get plenty of rest: It is important to get plenty of sleep and rest to help your body fight the flu.
- Drink plenty of fluids: Drink plenty of water, broth, and other fluids to prevent dehydration. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can dehydrate you.
- Treat fever and body aches: You can take over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) to reduce fever and relieve body aches. Follow the instructions on the label and do not exceed the recommended dose.
- Relieve cough and congestion: Over-the-counter cold and cough medications can help relieve cough and congestion. Honey can also help relieve a cough.
- Use a humidifier: Adding moisture to the air with a humidifier can help relieve coughing and congestion.
- Stay home: To avoid spreading the flu, stay home from work or school until you have recovered and have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication.
- Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently, cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, and avoid close contact with other sick people.