FLU/INFLUENZA

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Definition: Influenza or flu is a viral illness affecting the respiratory system. Antibiotic therapy is not effective for a viral illness. There are specific anti-viral medications that can be prescribed within the first 48 hours after symptoms appear.

SYMPTOMS

  • Fever above 100.5 F. Fevers can be as high as 104 F
  • Chills
  • Weakness and fatigue
  • Body aches and pains
  • Cough, dry or with clear mucus
  • Headache
  • Runny nose with clear drainage
  • Sore throat
  • 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 soothe an irritated throat.
  3. Tylenol (Acetaminophen), Advil (Ibuprofen) as needed. Check your temperature before taking either product.
  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 soothe inflamed nasal and chest mucous membranes.
  9. Do not smoke

TREAT THE SYMPTOMS - Flu misery can be more bearable by controlling the symptoms

Symptoms Treatment
  1. Sneezing, running nose, stuffy head
  2. Fever, body ache, headache
  3. Cough
  4. Sore throat, hoarseness
  • Sudafed or decongestant of choice
  • Tylenol, Advil or Ibuprofen
  • Robitussin DM (no alcohol)
  • Throat lozenges, warm salt water gargle, hard candy (lemon drops)

HEALTH SERVICE VISIT RECOMMENDED IF

  1. Persistent elevated temperature, not relieved by medication
  2. Painful breathing, wheezing or shortness of breath
  3. Extremely red throat
  4. Painful and swollen neck glands
  5. Unusual fatigue, lasting more than 2 days