What To Do If You Get The Flu

The 2017-2018 flu season is brutal. Okay, it's an epidemic this year that's hit Central Texas hard. IF you have the flu or think you have the flu, here's five quick tips to get you back on your feet again.

Two things found just about everywhere you look these days:

1. The flu.

2. Girl Scout cookies.

Hopefully, you feel well enough to enjoy a Thin Mint or Caramel Delight, but if not, jot down these five tips to get you back to feeling your best.

1. Verify you have the flu.

There are some common symptoms including cough, fever, fatigue, chills, sore throat, runny nose and/or body aches that indicate you have the flu. According to the CDC, not everyone will have a fever. We can confirm whether the flu hit you or whether you're suffering from a common cold or seasonal allergies, which are both common right now. Need an appointment? You can always book an appointment online at any of our Pro-Care locations, often for the same day. 

2. Take an antiviral medication.

Tamiflu and Relenza are the two antiviral prescription drugs currently available on the market. Both can help reduce the time you're feeling lousy or keep you from getting dangerously ill should you be at high-risk of developing flu complications.

3. Drink plenty of fluids

You've probably heard it before, but it's true! Clear fluids such as water, sports drinks and soup broths are a must when fighting the flu. Dehydration is a serious side effect, so keeping fluids in you is a must. However you need to consume fluids (have a friend drop off some Sonic soft ice, ice pops, or whatever), do it.

4. Take pain relief and fever reducers.

Analgesics including ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help reduce body aches and fever to help you feel more comfortable while your body rids itself of the flu. Should you have any chronic conditions, please be sure to check with your Pro-Care provider first on dosage and recommendations.

5. Rest (and stay home!).

Your body needs rest to battle the virus. Plus, you stay home so you're not infecting others around you. Once your fever has broken, give yourself another 24 hours before you leave home.

Other over-the-counter medications including antihistamines, decongestants, cough drops and other cough suppressants may help, but only temporarily. Gurgling salt water, hot showers, humidifiers are great to help you feel as comfortable as possible. If your condition worsens, we're here to help. And, it goes without saying, if you feel it's an emergency, please dial 911.

Be sure to take care of yourself and others around you this flu season. Once you're back on your feet, perhaps you'll be ready to enjoy that Girl Scout cookie!

Source: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/treatment/index.html