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by Answerbag Staff on February 1st, 2010

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How do i treat the flu?

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  • by Megan Richardson on February 1st, 2010

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    Great Answer

    Professionally Researched. (What's this?)

    Viral influenza, commonly known as the flu, is an infection of the respiratory tract. Every year, millions of people around the world will come down with the flu and its symptoms: high fever, muscle aches, fatigue, a sore throat and a cough. Although it is a common illness, deadly complications can arise from the flu, so it is important to know how to treat it.

    At-home Treatments

    The flu can usually be treated at home, but if there are underlying issues, such as asthma, lung disease or pregnancy, see a doctor. The best way to treat the flu at home is to increase intake of liquids and take warm showers. This will help clear any nasal congestion. Nasal strips and humidifiers also clear congestion. Because the body aches during the flu, over-the-counter acetaminophen and ibuprofen are recommended. Cough drops and cough syrups work to suppress sore throats and persistent coughs. Sleep and rest are important so that the body can get over the illness in a timely manner.

    When To See A Doctor

    The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention set a list of guidelines for when people should see a doctor for the flu. Shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, confusion and severe vomiting are all reasons to seek medical help. Complications can arise from the flu, like pneumonia, and these symptoms suggest a possible complication that should be treated immediately. Every year 36,000 people die from complications from the flu, so it is important to pay attention to the body's response to the illness.

    Preventing The Flu

    It is possible to prevent the flu with antiviral medications and the flu shot. Zanamivir and oseltamivir are two antiviral medications that can be taken when a person first develops flu-like symptoms. These medications can keep the illness from breaking out into full-blown influenza. The flu shot is a vaccine that contains inactivated viruses. The vaccine then targets foreign molecules, located on the surface of the flu virus. If successful, the virus is killed before it has a chance to cause any symptoms.

    Source:

    Medicine Net: Flu

    Health Central: Immunizations-Viral Influenza

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