WHAT YOU SHOULD
KNOW
Flu (influenza) is a common infection of the lungs,
airways, and throat. It can spread easily, most often during
the winter. Most people start to feel better after a few days,
and feel normal again after 1 to 2 weeks.
Causes
The infection can come from any
of a large variety of influenza viruses. A flu shot will
protect you from some of the worst kinds of flu viruses--but
not every kind. Even with the shot you may still get the flu,
but it may not last as long as it would
otherwise.
Signs/Symptoms
Typical symptoms are chills,
fever, an achy feeling, cough, sore throat, and headache. You
also may feel very tired.
Care
Antibiotics are no help against
the flu. There are virus medicines your doctor can prescribe if
the flu gets very bad, but they won't provide a cure. The best
strategy is plenty of rest, lots of liquids, and acetaminophen
for pain and fever. Your doctor can also prescribe medicine to
help you stop coughing.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
-
You may use acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever and
body aches. Do NOT take aspirin if you have a
fever.
-
Use a cool-mist humidifier to increase air moisture.
This will make it easier for you to breathe and will help
relieve your cough.
-
Gargling may help relieve your sore throat. Use warm
salt water (1 teaspoon of salt in a cup of water) or warm
or cold double-strength tea.
-
Wash your hands often to avoid spreading germs. This
is especially important after blowing your nose and before
touching food. Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or
sneeze.
-
Rest until your temperature is normal (98.6 degrees F
or 37 degrees C). This usually takes 3 to 4 days. Get
plenty of sleep.
-
Drink as much water or other liquid as you
comfortably can. Drink 8 to 10 (soda-can size) glasses a
day, if possible.
-
You may want to get a flu shot in the fall to keep
from getting the flu again next year, particularly if you
are over 65 or have a medical
condition.
Call Your Doctor If...
-
Your fever lasts more than 3 or 4 days or you have a
high temperature.
-
You have trouble breathing while resting, a deep
cough with lots of mucus, or chest
pain.
-
You have nausea, vomiting, or
diarrhea.
Seek Care Immediately If...
-
You are very breathless or have dark or bluish
fingernails, toenails, or skin.
-
You get really bad neck pain or
stiffness.
-
You feel confused, start acting strangely, or have a
seizure.
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