The seasonal flu and H1N1 influenza are viruses that cause symptoms such as body aches, fever, chills, fatigue and a sore throat. Rest and over-the-counter medication often are enough to help an individual through the virus. Other times, prescription antiviral medications are needed to help fend off the virus. Antiviral medicines, usually reserved for individuals with the largest risk for complications from influenza, shorten the duration and severity of the virus.
Antihistamines
Most individuals are able to handle treating symptoms of the influenza virus with over-the-counter medications. One such type is antihistamines, which help dry up the secretions produced by the virus. Antihistamines are available as a nasal spray and in oral forms.
Decongestants
Decongestants reduce congestion in the sinuses. This decreases the runny nose symptoms associated with the flu. Decongestants often are used in combination with the antihistamines to dry up the secretions. Tablets and elixirs are both options for these medications.
Cough Medications
The type of cough an individual is experiencing determines the kind of cough medication needed to treat symptoms of influenza. Cough suppressants and expectorants are available, as well as a combination of these two types. Expectorants work to thin mucus and allow you to cough up the congestion. Suppressants decrease the frequency of coughing. Cough medicines are available in liquid and pill form.
Analgesics
Medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen work to reduce fevers and relieve the aches of the virus. Analgesics are available as a tablet or in liquid forms.
Antiviral Medications
Prescription antiviral medications, reserved for the very ill patients with influenza, work to stop the spread of the virus in the body. A physician prescribes the medicine in the first two days after the start of flu symptoms. Patients such as the elderly, children, pregnant women and individuals with compromised immune systems are the largest population to receive antiviral medicines. Some antiviral medicines treat the seasonal flu, while others treat the H1N1 influenza virus.
Rest and Fluids
Getting plenty of rest and fluids is important to recovering from influenza. Staying home and away from others helps decrease the spread of the flu. It is important to stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever breaks. Practicing proper hand-washing helps prevent the spread of the virus as well as relapse.
