The treatment options for the flu depend on the severity of the illness and the individual’s overall health. In general, the following measures can help alleviate symptoms and promote recovery:
- Rest: It’s important to rest and avoid physical activity until the fever has gone down and symptoms have improved.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, tea, and soup, to help replace fluids lost from sweating and mucus production.
- Fever reduction: Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce fever and alleviate other symptoms such as headaches and body aches.
- Antiviral medications: Prescription antiviral medications, such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu), can be used to treat the flu and may shorten the duration of the illness and reduce the severity of symptoms.
- Prevention of complications: People who are at higher risk for complications from the flu, such as young children, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems, may need additional medical treatment, such as hospitalization or antibiotics to treat secondary bacterial infections.
- Flu vaccine: Getting a flu vaccine every year is the best way to prevent the flu and its complications.
How do I manage symptoms of the flu?
- Getting plenty of rest.
- Drinking fluids like water or broth to help prevent dehydration.
- Applying heat packs or hot water bottles can help with aching muscles.
- Taking acetaminophen (Tylenol®) or NSAIDs (Advil®, Motrin®, Aleve®) can help lower your fever and relieve head and body aches.
- Using spray or oral decongestants like phenylephrine or pseudoephedrine can help with a runny or stuffy nose.
- Taking cough suppressants (antitussives) like dextromethorphan can help calm a nagging cough.
- Using expectorants like guaifenesin make it easier to clear mucus out of your lungs.
Not everyone should take certain OTCs, so check with your provider before you use them. It’s also a good idea to make sure certain medications are okay to use together or with supplements. Don’t give aspirin to children under the age of 16 unless their provider says it’s okay.
It’s important to note that antibiotics are not effective against the flu, as it is caused by a virus and not bacteria. Additionally, over-the-counter medications that contain aspirin should be avoided in children and teenagers with the flu, as it can increase the risk of developing a rare but serious condition called Reye’s syndrome.