Flu/influenza

Influenza/flu is a viral illness affecting the respiratory system. Antibiotic therapy is not effective for a viral illness.

Symptoms

1. Fever about 100.5°, although fevers can be as high as 104°
2. Chills
3. Weakness and fatigue
4. Body aches and pains
5. Cough, dry or with clear mucus
6. Headache
7. Runny nose with clear drainage
8. Sore throat
9. Symptoms appear quickly, but usually begin to subside after 1-2 days. Complete recovery may take 7-10 days.

Self-Treatment

1. Drink plenty of water and juices to combat dehydration.
2. Warm drinks such as tea with honey and lemon, help drain sinuses and sooth an irritated throat.
3. Tylenol (acetaminophen), 2 tablets every 4 hours as needed (check temperature before taking Tylenol).
4. Get plenty of rest.
5. Gargle with warm salt water.
6. Use disposable tissues.
7. Keep room humidity high by using a vaporizer.
8. Take steamy showers; inhaling warm, moist air will sooth inflamed nasal and chest mucus membranes.
9. Do not smoke.

Treat The Symptoms - Flu misery can be more bearable by controlling the symptoms.

Symptoms Treatment

Sneezing, Runny Nose, Stuffy Head(Congestion)

• Sudafed or decongestant of choice.
• Expectorant of choice (Mucinex, Robitussin).
• Antihistamine of choice (Benadryl, Chlorpheniramine, Claritin)

Fever, Headache, Body Aches

• Tylenol, 2 tablets every 4-6 hours or Motrin/Advil(Ibuprofen), 2 tablets every 6-8 hours with a meal

Cough

• Robitussin DM or Delsym (no alcohol)

Sore Throat, Hoarseness

• Throat lozenges, hard candy (lemon drops).
• Warm salt water gargles.

Health Service Visit Recommended If:

• Fever greater than 102° not relieved by Tylenol or Ibuprofen.
• Discolored nasal drainage.
• Cough producing discolored mucus.
• Painful breathing, wheezing or shortness of breath.
• Extremely red throat.
• Painful and swollen neck glands.
• Unusual fatigue, lasting more than 2 days.