King's Pharmacy
How Do You Treat the Flu?
The flu is typically caused by a virus. Usually, viruses are spread from person to person through the air when someone who is infected sneezes or coughs. However, the virus can also pass through objects such as doorknobs, pencils, pens, keyboards, phones, cups, and eating utensils for a short period of time. Therefore, you could potentially contract the virus if you touch something that has recently been handled by a person who has the flu and then touch your mouth, eyes or nose. Keep reading to find out how to treat the flu and how our pharmacy in Birmingham can help.
What are the symptoms of the flu?
Symptoms may vary from person to person. Although it is referred to as a respiratory illness, the flu can affect any part of your body. When several or all of the symptoms listed below appear in a person, they typically get very ill:
– Cough, that worsens over time.
– Extreme exhaustion.
– Vomiting and diarrhoea.
– Fatigue for several weeks.
– Headache.
– Severe aches and pains.
– High fever.
– Runny or stuffy nose.
– Sneezing at times.
– Sometimes a sore throat.
While coughing and exhaustion might last for two weeks or longer, fever and body aches typically last for three to five days. The flu’s symptoms can resemble those of other illnesses. Always consult your healthcare provider for a diagnosis.
How do you diagnose the flu?
A diagnosis of the flu is usually made using your symptoms. If necessary, laboratory testing may be conducted to confirm the diagnosis.
How to treat flu quickly
Your pharmacist will choose a specific flu treatment plan based on:
– Your age, general health, and health background.
– The severity of the symptoms and the extent of the flu.
– The duration of your symptoms.
– Your tolerance for particular treatments, surgeries, or medications.
– Predictions regarding the progression of the illness.
– Your preference or opinion.
The aim of flu treatment is to lessen or assist prevent the severity of symptoms. Treatment options include:
– Antiviral medications. They cannot cure the flu, but they can shorten the duration of your illness. You should start them within the first two days of the sickness. There are some side effects associated with these medications, including anxiety, dizziness, and nausea. You need a prescription from your doctor for these medications.
– There are medications for nasal discharge and congestion. Additionally, you can take medication for fever and pains. Children who have a fever shouldn’t be given aspirin. Acetaminophen is the medication of preference for children.
– Rest in bed and drink more fluids.
It would be best if you spoke with your healthcare provider for more information.
How do I stop myself from getting the flu?
The best approach to protect yourself against the flu is to get vaccinated. Every autumn, a fresh flu vaccine is produced. Every year, everyone older than six months should have a flu vaccine. It is typically advised for specific people as well as for those who want to prevent getting the flu.
Flu vaccination is secure. Millions of flu vaccines have been successfully administered throughout the country since the 1970s. You cannot contract the flu via the flu vaccine. The flu jab’s most frequent side effects include:
– Achiness.
– Low-grade fever.
– Soreness at the site of injection.
These side effects, if you experience them at all, are often minor and temporary. The vaccine’s effectiveness varies from person to person. It may rely on factors like age and general health. Our pharmacy in Birmingham can help address any concerns that you have.
How to treat flu and what pharmacy can I visit near me in Birmingham
We’re here to support you. Simply, book your appointment or visit your local King’s Pharmacy in Birmingham. Alternatively, get in touch with us for more information.
This blog post was written on behalf of King’s Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.