Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is characterised by temperature, body aches, headache, loss of energy and loss of appetite. Flu symptoms can differ from that of a cold, which is typically characterised by runny nose, sore throat and a cough.
Naturally, if you’re unsure and don’t feel well, you might want to consult your doctor or buy rapid antigentest kit for use in the home. But for now let’s take a closer look at influenza and how to go about treating it effectively.
What to do when you have the flu
Having the flu can be pretty unpleasant, with its symptoms draining you of the energy you need to carry out daily activities. The most important thing to do when you have the flu is rest up as the body needs time to recuperate, as your body will be using the energy you would usually save for other activities to battle the flu.
Secondly, you must drink plenty of water so that you keep hydrated, as your body will dry out a little every time you run a temperature. You may not have much of an appetite and this is okay as you don’t need to eat too much when you have the influenza.
Stay away from crowds
No one wants to be the one to spread the flu around, so don’t force yourself to go to work if you are sick. Spreading the flu in a workplace can happen rapidly and with huge impact, so be sure to take your time to rest up and don’t put yourself in a situation where you might quickly spread the flu.
You may also like to isolate yourself slightly from friends and family and avoid coughing and sneezing around others (if you have cold symptoms too). The quicker the flu situation is over for you and your loved ones the better, so do your best to avoid a situation where you may quickly spread it around your household, too.
Be sure to wash your hands regularly, especially if you are handling food that others might be eating. What’s more, do your best not to breathe over the food as this can also spread the flu. You should probably be resting up at this time anyway, so you might want to give up the cooking duties for a day or two!
Medications
Store-bought medications can help with the flu but they can’t be classed as a “cure”. Medications like paracetamol can help with flu-like symptoms, but don’t give your child aspirin for the flu.
You just have to rest up!
People who have the flu typically experience it for five to seven days. The most important thing is to rest up and stay very hydrated as your body needs time to use the energy it would otherwise use for daily activities.
The flu isn’t fun – we all know this – but there’s nothing worse than creating a situation in which you spread it around to others. Don’t overexert yourself, and do everything possible to avoid a situation in which you may accidentally spread the nasty influenza around to others.
So, give yourself some time to take it easy and relax. Cozy up on the couch or in bed, watch your favourite series or read a good book whilst taking good health care of your body and return to normal lifestyle. You should be back on your feet in a few day’s time.
