Seasonal flu is one of the most common viruses that affect people in the United States, with an average of between 5 and 20 percent of all residents contracting the disease each year. The illness can last for up to two weeks and cause respiratory problems, severe fever, body aches and pains, and a wide variety of other uncomfortable issues. Flu season typically starts in the fall and peaks in January or February, and it’s best to receive a flu vaccination shot before that time in order to avoid contracting the illness.

Symptoms of the Flu

There are many different types of flu that have been diagnosed, but all types of the illness have similar symptoms. The most common symptoms include fever in excess of 100 degrees Fahrenheit, a cough or sore throat, a runny or stuffy nose, headaches, body aches, chills, fatigue, nausea and/or vomiting, and diarrhea. While many of these symptoms are similar to those of the common cold, making it difficult at times to distinguish which illness a person is affected by, the most defining characteristic of flu symptoms is that they are much more severe than those associated with the common cold – and that they last for longer periods of time, too. Healthcare professionals are able to administer a test within the first few days of being sick to determine whether or not you have contracted the flu, but it’s not necessarily required that you visit a physician if you have the flu. However, if you experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, discoloration of the lips, pain or pressure in the chest, dizziness, persistent vomiting, or seizures, or if the flu-like symptoms go away but return soon with a fever or worse cough, you should contact your primary care physician immediately.

Treatment for Flu Symptoms

Treating flu symptoms can be done with and without medications. There are many over-the-counter medicines that can bring relief for many flu symptoms, and doctor-prescribed antibiotics also can be extremely helpful in alleviating and controlling many of the pains associated with contracting the flu. However, the two main keys for treating flu symptoms are to get plenty of rest and to keep yourself hydrated. Fluids that are best to take in are clear fluids such as water, broth, and sports drinks and other electrolyte-rich beverages. It is important to constantly consume clear liquids in order to keep your body properly hydrated, and maintaining a schedule – such as a drink every 5-10 minutes – can help ensure you do so.

There are several other treatment methods that can be used to combat other flu symptoms. For instance, you can place a cool, damp cloth on your forehead, arms, and legs to reduce discomfort associated with fever, and cover up with a warm blanket to calm chills. You can place a humidifier in the room to make breathing easier. Gargling salt water (one part salt, one part warm water) can soothe a sore throat. You can also contact your local primary care physician to receive more tips on how best to deal with specific flu symptoms.

Caring for Someone with the Flu

The chances are good that everyone will, at some point in their life, have to care for someone with the flu. Whether it’s a child, a spouse, or a parent, it’s important to remember that the best thing you can do when caring for someone with the flu is to do your best to keep that person comfortable – even if it at times becomes an accomplishment that is impossible to achieve – and to do your best to prevent the disease from affecting someone else within your house. To prevent the disease from spreading, try your best to isolate the sick person from others in your household, and be sure that everyone in your home continually cleans their hands with soap and water in an effort to keep germs at bay.

John Soland is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Mr. Soland is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to health.

John Soland is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Mr. Soland is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to health. https://www.itriagehealth.com/facility/laser-spine-institute-1287897

Author Bio: John Soland is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Mr. Soland is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to health.

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