How to Get Rid of Flu Symptoms in the Body
Overview
The flu, or seasonal influenza, is a serious virus that can affect anyone. According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than 200,000 people end up in the hospital each year because of complications arising from the flu. Of those, around 36,000 people die from complications resulting from the flu each year. The symptoms are bothersome and can leave a feeling of general malaise and discomfort. Symptoms include nasal congestion, headache, body aches and chills, sore and irritated throat, cough, weakness and high fever. Aside from letting the influenza virus run its normal course, there are ways to alleviate symptoms and try to get rid of them faster.
Step 1
Alleviate the achiness of the flu by applying a heating pad to the arms and legs. The arms and legs are generally the location that may become the achiest during the flu. They can also become very weak. With the flu, body temperature fluctuates. Wait until fever has subsided to use a heating pad; otherwise, it could raise the body temperature to dangerous levels.
Step 2
Soak in the bathtub. The tub water should not be overly hot or cold, just warm enough to allow the muscles to soak and relax. A water temperature of around 99 to 100 degrees F should be comfortable. This can be a good way to slightly raise or lower body temperature as the flu runs its course.
Step 3
Apply a cold compress if the body temperature spikes over 101 degrees F. As the fever runs its course, an ice pack may help with bringing down the temperature and making the body more comfortable.
Step 4
Drink plenty of water. During the flu, either the seasonal flu or gastroenteritis (stomach flu), the body tends to lose a significant amount of fluids and electrolytes because of sweating, lack of appetite, diarrhea and vomiting. Drinking eight, 8-oz. glasses is recommended for healthy individuals. An additional 2 to 4 cups of water may be needed to prevent dehydration. One way to supplement fluids is with broth or soups, such as vegetable and chicken noodle.
Step 5
Take the recommended dosage of acetaminophen for pain and fever. You may also ask your physician to prescribe antiviral agents that may help fight off some symptoms of the flu. This will help you cope with the body aches and pains associated with influenza.
Tips and Warnings
- Avoid coming in close contact with others during an influenza outbreak. This will prevent the spread of the virus. Wash your hands frequently and stay home from work or school so you can recover completely.
- If you experience breathing difficulties or feel faint or weakness and symptoms persist for more than 3 days, call your physician or health care provider. This could mean you are developing complications from the flu or the symptoms are the result of underlying medical condition.
Things You'll Need
- Heating pad Bathtub Cold compress Acetaminophen Prescription antiviral medications Vegetable or chicken noodle soup
References
About this Author
Julie Boehlke is a seasoned copywriter and content creator based in the great lakes state. Aside of traveling and concocting new wine recipes, she enjoys writing on a wide genre of topics such as green living, gardening, world travel, golf, outdoors, camping, winemaking, gourmet cooking, hiking, backpacking, outdoor survival and interior decorating. Her diverse medical background and experience allows her to share her expertise in end of life care, disease management and behavioral therapy.
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