How Can I Ease Flu Symptoms?

Do you drink a lot of fluids (water, fruit juice, sports drinks, and broth-based soups)?

Do you eat food that includes different types of fruits and vegetables?

Do you take vitamin supplements?

Are you resting?

Are you getting enough sleep (when you are sick you can sleep longer than you are used to)?

Do you use over-the-counter cough medicines?

Do you use over-the-counter pain relievers (Tylenol, Advil, Motrin IB)?

Do you use saline nasal drops or sprays?

Are you taking antiviral drugs prescribed by your doctor?

If the air in your house is dry, do you use a humidifier or evaporator?

Based on your answers, there are several other ways that can help you ease flu symptoms. Drink plenty of fluids because your body can easily dehydrate especially if you have a fever. Excess fluid will thin the airway mucus, which can prevent complications such as bronchitis. Eat as many different fruits and vegetables throughout the day to strengthen your immune system, which plays the most important role in fighting the flu. Try to rest as much as possible. Get a good night's sleep so that your immune system can fight the infection effectively. If you cough, you can use over-the-counter cough medicines.

Based on your answers, you know a lot about how to ease flu symptoms. Influenza treatment usually includes rest and increased fluid intake. If you are used to being physically active, you need to reduce physical activity when you have the flu to avoid further weakening of the body, even though you do not feel so ill. Use salty nasal drops to ease a stuffy nose. In some cases, when there is a risk of a serious infection or complication, your doctor may prescribe antiviral drugs to treat the flu. Sometimes these drugs can cause nausea or vomiting, so it is best to take them with food.