Flu, also known as Influenza, is an acute illness caused by the influenza virus. It can be acquired by inhaling respiratory secretions from infected people, through coughing and sneezing. Symptoms are usually mild to moderate, and if not managed early, can lead to severe complications.
The most common symptoms include a fever, runny nose, muscle pain, headache, coughing, colds, and fatigue. These symptoms may begin two to three days after the exposure and may last up to a week or two. Since it is a viral infection, the body should be able to get over it within a few days. It is self-limiting, so your immune system should be able to fight the infection without any medication. Here are natural and effective ways to survive flu.
Drink Plenty Of Water
Photo by Pontus Ohlsson
Increasing fluid intake is the most common advice given by health care providers when you have flu. Water cleanses our body and keeps it well hydrated allowing it to function normally. Cough and colds can last for as long as two weeks, and water helps turn thick mucus thin, making it easy to spit out. Water also helps flush toxins in our body and improves its bodily functions. It also lowers elevated temperature if you have a fever.
Eat Fruits and Veggies
Photo by Syd Wachs / Unsplash
Eating nutritious foods can hasten the process of healing. Fruits and veggies are the best and natural source of various vitamins and minerals. It also facilitates repair and regeneration of cells in the body. Green leafy vegetables are not only rich sources of nutrients; it also improves metabolism and digestion.
Since your body is still recovering, you need energy and immune boosting sources, so eat foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E. You can also include soups with herbs that have natural antibacterial properties like ginger, turmeric, garlic, and onion.
Proper Hygiene
Photo by Monkgogi Samson / Unsplash
Ignoring proper hygiene during bouts of flu may lead to spread of the illness inside your household or office, affecting your family and people around you. Some people who have flu fail to maintain proper hygiene due to weakness and poor health. No matter how simple, proper hand washing is the first and foremost protection against the spread of infection. It is the basic defense that everyone can afford.
By washing your hands frequently, you protect yourself and your loved ones from diseases. Oral hygiene is also important as this reduces symptoms of discomfort in the throat. Gargling with warm water eases the pain and soreness. Warm soap bath can help relieve muscle pain and headache; it will also make you feel better, cleaner and relaxed.
Adequate Rest and Peace of Mind
Photo by Vladislav Muslakov / Unsplash
Sleep and rest are one of the best ways to restore your health. Having enough time to rest can free your mind from too much stress and pressure. You should always find time to lie down and relax your mind and body. To recover and feel energized, you need to sleep for at least 8 hours a day.
Having peace of mind allows you to think straight and clearly. If you are stressed, it also improves your body’s immune response and ability to fight off infection. Lack of sleep and stress can lead to weakness and serious health issues, which will make it hard to recover even from the simplest form of flu.
Avoid Drinking Alcohol and Quit Smoking
Photo by Sajjad Zabihi / Unsplash
“Cigarette smoking is the leading preventable cause of death in the United States,” according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Smoking may lead to severe respiratory symptoms during an attack of flu. Those people who are already suffering from lung problems due to smoking are putting their lives at greater risk.
Smoking introduces toxins into the body, which can destroy healthy cells and negatively impact your immune system. Studies show that drinking alcohol is also associated with severe bouts of flu. It weakens the immune system leading to severe symptoms.
Exercise and Physical Activity
Photo by Jacob Postuma / Unsplash
If you have severe symptoms, you might need to rest for awhile for your body to fully recover. If the symptoms are mild and do not include fatigue and fever, doing stretching and simple exercise is acceptable. The main effect of physical activity and exercise is on the prevention of flu.
It strengthens your body and releases hormones that can help you regain strength and vitality. Walking for 10-20 minutes a day is enough to rip its wonderful benefits. Walking as simple as it may seem, can make you sweat in a minute. It also strengthens body’s inflammatory response and improves body’s immune defense mechanism.
