How to survive the flu

Fact Checked

The flu season is considered highly erratic. It can be mild in certain years but also vicious in other times. The reason for its changing nature is the constant evolution of the virus.

The flu vaccine released for the year might not cover the dominant flu strain that is currently circulating. Another reason is that the strain is a severe one or likely to trigger complications that can become deadly.

Signs and symptoms

• Headache
• Fever that suddenly occurs and rises
• Cough
• Body aches
• Sore throat

  

• Runny nose
• Lack of energy
• Generalized feeling of being sick

What are the initial care measures for the flu?

• Antiviral medications can be considered effective if given in the initial 24-48 hours. A doctor should be consulted regarding a rapid-flu test and discuss if he/she can benefit from antiviral medications. These antiviral medications only shorten the symptoms by 1-2 days.
• It is vital to ask about antivirals for adults over age 65, young children, pregnant women and those who have chronic health conditions.
• If the previous measures fail, the individual has to rest. The time frame for the sickness is usually 2-5 days. It is best to avoid exposure to others due to its contagious nature for 4-5 days. Proper hydration must be maintained while pain medications and cough and nasal congestion remedies can be used as needed.

When to seek medical attention?

Most children and adults eventually get better without requiring specific medications or care measures. Nevertheless, a small percentage might result to severe complications. There are certain indications to watch out for such as:

• Difficulty breathing
• High fever that could not be lowered down using ibuprofen or acetaminophen
• Lethargy or behavioral changes
• Diminished appetite or refusal to eat or drink anything (there are indications of dehydration such as dry mouth, decreased urination and dry eyes)
• Productive cough
• Intense ear pain