Posted ByFrankWhen we all got sick at the same time, it was a real mess. It was probably the worst pandemic in human history. And while COVID-19 is still with us, we’re not quite sure what will happen next.
But one thing is for certain — we’ll get through this together. The flu may be something we can only catch from our neighbors or coworkers, but even though it’s not as scary as the coronavirus, it does cause more than a million hospitalizations each year and up to half a million deaths.
So if you have the flu, here are some tips to help ease your symptoms. As always, call your doctor before trying anything new, especially if you’ve had any other health problems lately.
Stay hydrated
No matter how healthy you are, getting dehydrated during an illness can make everything worse, including your fever. So stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Avoid alcohol (it makes dehydration worse), caffeine (which increases thirst) and sugar (which can lead to increased urination).
Rest when you can
If you feel like you need to rest, do so. But don’t go too long without sleep, because that can also increase fatigue and dehydration. If you usually take naps, stick to 30 minutes.
Get enough sleep
You know you need to sleep, but sometimes the body just won’t let you rest properly. Make sure you get the right amount of sleep for your age and health. Sleep helps the immune system fight off viruses, so be sure to put your phone away at least an hour before bedtime.
Avoid the flu virus
This one goes against common sense, but people often spread the flu virus unknowingly. Be sure to cover your coughs and sneezes with your elbow or tissues, wash your hands frequently, and avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Also try to avoid sharing drinks and food with anyone who has recently been exposed to someone else who is sick with the flu.
Don’t forget about exercise
Exercise is another good way to boost your immune system. It helps keep blood sugar levels stable, which reduces inflammation and lowers stress hormones, both of which make recovery easier. Exercise also stimulates production of white blood cells, which help fight infection. Just be sensible and listen to your body.
Eat well
Eating well while you’re ill can reduce fatigue and muscle aches, and eating nutritious foods can help boost your immune system. You should eat three meals a day (with snacks between meals), plus a snack after lunch so you stay full longer. Keep things simple and try to avoid junk food if you can.
If you want to avoid any kind of flu then for you it is must that you have to eat well as if you have a good immunity than not a single disease can cause you harm. But if you don’t eat properly and not having a good immune system then for you it is must to eat well in order to save you from different types of flu.
Try supplements
Supplements can help boost your immunity, but they shouldn’t replace medications or vaccines. Talk to your doctor about whether supplements are safe for you.
Keep track of your symptoms
Write down every symptom you experience, even if it seems minor. This includes headaches, sore throat, chills, coughing, runny nose, chest pain, dizziness, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Tracking these symptoms can help you figure out if they’re caused by something else besides the flu.
Take care of yourself
Being sick puts a lot of strain on your body, including your physical and mental well-being. Take breaks from work if you need them, and limit your screen time. Consider making changes to your diet to help prevent future illnesses. For example, cut back on sugar, salt and processed foods.
Call your doctor
It can be hard to tell if you’re actually sick with the flu or something else. But talk to your doctor about how you’re feeling and whether you should be tested for other infections. They may prescribe antibiotics and antiviral drugs, depending on how severe your symptoms are.
Wash your hands often
Most people aren’t able to fully wash their hands properly when they’re sick, but using soap and warm water for 20 seconds can lessen the impact of germs on your skin. Wash your face thoroughly and use moisturizer afterward to protect your skin. Make sure everyone around you knows how to follow basic hand hygiene, especially those who could be at risk for catching the virus.
Avoid crowds
The flu spreads easily, so be wary if you see lots of people coughing and sneezing near you. If you think you have the flu, stay home until your temperature drops to normal. Even if you don’t have the flu, avoiding close contact with others can help lower the chance of spreading the virus.
Clean surfaces and your surroundings
Cleaning up your house can help stop the spread of germs. Clean surfaces and wipe down counters, tables, phones and keyboards. Throw away used tissues immediately, and clean items that come into contact with bodily fluids such as couches, toilets and faucets. Disinfect shared utensils and drink glasses.
Cover your cough
Coughing is a normal part of the respiratory process, but covering your cough can help contain germs and prevent others from inhaling them. Use a tissue or sleeve to cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, and dispose of it immediately.
If you get the flu…
Know that you’re contagious for two days before and four days after you begin showing symptoms.
Be aware that you can infect others before you start experiencing symptoms.
Follow CDC guidelines for social distancing and isolation.
Drink plenty of fluids.
Consider taking a multivitamin and zinc supplement daily.
Stay home as much as possible.
See a doctor if symptoms worsen.
For more information, check out this article explaining how the flu works, why it can be fatal and what you can do to help yourself recover.