Influenza, or flu, is caused by a viral infection. Flu is self-limiting and normally runs its course in five to seven days. Symptoms include high fever, body aches, runny nose followed by congestion and cough, sore throat and malaise. Treatment is aimed at controlling symptoms. Flu remedies at home can be easily carried out. However, if you have underlying health problems or uncontrollable fever, trouble breathing or change in mental status you should seek medical care.
Rest
Flu causes generalized fatigue and weakness referred to as malaise. Put your flu patient to bed in a location that provides the greatest comfort but also limited traffic. Flu is contagious so removing the ill person from the rest of your family and friends is a good idea. Make sure the bed has clean, well-fitted sheets to minimize wrinkles that cause pressure points on tender skin and aching muscles and joints. The room should have good ventilation and natural lighting. A view outside and fresh air can help prevent feelings of frustration or loneliness caused by being confined to bed. Use layers of sheets and blankets rather than one or two heavy comforters because fever and chills require more or less blankets.
Control Fever
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health recommends using a thermometer to monitor fever. Pick the type of thermometer you are comfortable using such as a digital thermometer for use either under the tongue or the arm, or for use in the ear.
If a fever is present, generally a reading above 100.6 degrees Fahrenheit or about 37.6 degrees celcius, provide light covers, cool fluids and fever reducers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, which are over-the-counter medications. Billie Ann Wilson, Ph.D., Margaret Shannon, Ph.D., and Kelly Shields Pharm.D., authors of "Pearson Nurse's Drug Guide 2010," advise following dosing instructions and watching out for other OTC flu remedies, like cough medicines, that may also contain acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
Hydrate
Fever increases metabolic rate, which means you need more fluids and calories. Chicken broth or chicken noodle soup is an excellent source of both of these requirements. Juice, popsicles and non-caffeinated herbal teas are good for hydrating.
Humidify
A cool mist humidifier at the bedside can help moisten irritated airways, suppress cough, loosen mucous and reduce fever. Use and clean your humidifier as directed by the manufacturer.
Control Cough
Hydrating and humidifying are two flu home remedies that help control cough. Avoid irritants such as smoke. OTC preparations are available; if you have health problems like hypertension or asthma check with your doctor before using OTC products. This precaution also applies to herbal remedies. Wallace Murray, Ph.D, recommends slippery elm as a tea or lozenges that contain volatile oils of peppermint or anise as herbal flu remedies to control cough.
Control Pain
A comfortable bed, changing positions frequently and gentle massage are flu home remedies that help alleviate pain. Acetaminophen and ibuprofen help relieve pain too.
References
- Massachusetts Department of Public Health: "Flu: What You Can Do"
- "Pearson Nurse's Drug Guide 2010"; Wilson, B. A., Shannon, T. M., & Shields, K. M.; 2010
- "Herbal Medicines: A Clinician's Guide"; Lucinda G. Miller, Pharm.D, BCPS, & Wallace J. Murray, Ph.D; 1998
