Although flu cannot be cured by flu treatments, fever, fatigue, congestion and aching can be relieved.
One symptom of the flu is nasal or sinus congestion. Some doctors recommend using a saline spray instead of a spray that is medicated for decongestation. Saline spray works takes more time to be effective but it will not have a rebound effect either. It can be used for longer time periods without notable side effects. A non-saline decongestant such as Pseudoephedrine may increase one’s blood pressure.
Sore throats can be treated by drinking lots of fluids and gargling with salt water. Medicated lozenges can also alleviate the pain of a sore throat.
Flu drugs or antivirals should be taken at the outset of the flu. Flu drugs are administered to reduce the severity and length of flu symptoms. Since the flu strains are always changing, it is essential to take the right antiviral when the first flu symptoms take place. Most antivirals have a side effect so one must ascertain what those are prior to taking them.
There are also antiviral drugs available for children by prescription only. The drugs are used to prevent flu caused infections and the spread of the flu virus.
Antibiotics are ineffective in treating flu symptoms. Since viruses cause the flu.
Below is a table indicating what drugs can be taken to help alleviate flu symptoms:
Antihistamines:
Allegra
Benadryl
Chlor-Trimeton
Claritin
Dimetane
Tavist
Zyrtec
Recuperating from the flu is greatly increased if the flu stricken individual is in good health. Their bodies will be better able to combat the invasive virus when it is healthy and rested.
Once stricken, it is important to get lots of rest, drink plenty of fluids, and take the best drugs as recommended by the doctor.