Flu remedies come in many variations. You may turn to the local drugstore for over-the-counter medications or get antiviral medications prescribed by your physician. If you would prefer not to use medications, there are adjunctive comfort measures that can aid your body in fighting the virus and make you feel better.
Antiviral Medications
According to the guidance set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people with a history of medical problems, the very young and old, and pregnant women have an increased risk of complications from the flu. A doctor can prescribe an antiviral medication to fight the illness. These medications stop the replication of the flu virus so that it dies off quickly. The antiviral drugs Relenza and Tamiflu work best when they are started within days of catching of the flu, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Take the full dose as prescribed and call your physician if any unexpected reactions occur while taking this medication.
Over-the-Counter Medications
The flu can cause discomfort, including runny nose and cough, fever, muscle aches and stomach upset. Decongestants and fever-reducing medications can be found together in combination drugs labeled for multisymptom cold relief. Do not combine these drugs with separate doses of other medications, as you could overdose accidentally. Also, take a multivitamin daily. When you are ill, ascorbic acid, also known as vitamin C, can supplement your body's natural healing response. Although not scientifically proven as a flu remedy, according to Drugs.com, ascorbic acid assists in cell regeneration. Cell regeneration will assist your body to heal more quickly after a viral attack.
Nonmedicinal Remedies
Treating muscle aches and fever with comfort measures is just as important as the medications, if any, that you choose to take. High fevers will dehydrate your body and actually increase muscle pain; maintaining proper hydration is an effective remedy for the flu. Approximately ten 8-oz. glasses of water daily can improve immune function. Also, sleep and rest allow your body to use energy to heal, as opposed to using it for daily activities such as work and chores.
Steam will moisturize your throat and sinuses, which will strengthen your natural defenses. Steam baths are easy to create. Close the bathroom door in the smallest bathroom you have and turn on a hot shower for 15 minutes, but do not get in the shower. Allow the steam to escape from the shower and simply breathe it in through your nose and out through your mouth.
