Page 32 - (DK) Home Doctor: Providing practical advice on home treatments

30 COMMON CONDITIONS: INFECTIOUS DISEASES

Influenza

The flu is a highly contagious viral illness that tends to occur in epidemics during the winter. It is spread by
the coughs and sneezes of infected people and also by direct contact with contaminated articles such as
handkerchiefs. About 24–48 hours after exposure to the infection, you develop a sudden fever, shivering,
headache, dry cough, muscle aches, exhaustion, and sore eyes and throat. Although you will begin to feel
better after 4–5 days, you may feel tired and continue coughing for several weeks.

See your doctor first
DRUG REMEDIES
Arrange to see your doctor if:
● You are frail or elderly, have heart or lung Analgesics will reduce fever and help relieve
problems, or have another chronic illness headache and muscle aches. Take acetaminophen
such as diabetes (see p.177) or ibuprofen (see p.185).
Cold and flu remedies (see p.180)
contain drugs for various symptoms. They usually
include an analgesic, such as acetaminophen, and a
What you can do yourself decongestant, to help you breathe more easily.
Check the ingredients carefully. You should not use
Although you can’t shorten a bout of the flu, these other remedies containing analgesics at the same
measures will help relieve the worst symptoms.
time because of the risk of overdose.
● Rest for a few days and avoid any unnecessary
activity. As you begin to feel better, gradually
increase what you do.
NATURAL REMEDIES
● Drink plenty of fluids, such as water or fruit
juice. If you don’t feel like eating, have nourishing Honey and lemon is a soothing drink
fluids such as chicken soup and broths. for a sore throat. Use freshly squeezed lemon juice,
liquid honey, and hot water.
● Take an analgesic or flu remedy to relieve aches
and pains (see DRUG REMEDIES, right). Making the drink
● To relieve the “stuffed-up” feeling, use a steam Add a teaspoon each of honey and
lemon juice to a cup of hot water.
inhalation (see PRACTICAL TECHNIQUE, p.79).
● Warm or chilled drinks soothe a sore throat.
Try making a warm honey and lemon drink (see
NATURAL REMEDIES, right).
● Don’t smoke or allow anyone to smoke near you.

Seek further medical advice
Arrange to see your doctor if:
PREVENTION
● Your symptoms have not begun to clear
up within a week Immunization against flu is recommended for
● You develop other symptoms, such as older people and those with low immunity and/or
breathing problems, or cough up green, chronic health problems. A flu shot is usually given
yellow, or bloody mucus annually in the fall. Ask your doctor for advice.