By Dr. George Hatoum
Many think that there is a special treatment for flu.
Actually, antiviral drugs can lessen symptoms and shorten the time you are sick by 1 or 2 days. They also can prevent serious flu complications, like pneumonia. For people at higher risk of serious flu complications, treatment with antiviral drugs can mean the difference between milder or more serious illness possibly resulting in a hospital stay.
But there are a few ways to Treat Flu Symptoms and Feel Better
Rest up.
When you first come down with the flu, rest is what will help give your body the energy it needs to fight the flu virus and flu symptoms, which is why rest is one of the go-to recommendations for people suffering from the flu.
Drink fluids.
Consuming enough fluids is another regularly recommended practice for people who have the flu.
Fever, a common flu symptom, is associated with dehydration, so it is important to get adequate amounts of water or other fluids to ensure that you stay hydrated while you have the flu.2
Avoid contact with others.
You won’t feel better if you recover from the flu virus only to learn that your loved ones caught it from you.
If you think you have the flu, it’s best to stay home and avoid close contact with those that are healthy. Flu viruses commonly spread through airborne droplets created when an infected person sneezes or coughs. Take some “me time” while you have to not only care for yourself, but also to care for those around you.
Ask your doctor about anti-viral medicines.
Tamiflu is a prescription medication that is perhaps the most well-known antiviral drug that is used to combat the flu. But it must be taken within a day or two of the symptoms beginning.4 Otherwise, it will not affect the course of your illness or symptoms if your symptoms have lasted more than 2 days.
Consult your doctor.
Your healthcare provider is the best person to advise you. As discussed above, they may put you on antiviral drugs within the 48 hours of your symptoms, which can lessen the severity and duration of flu symptoms.1
