Even when taking the recommended flu-season precautions like getting the flu shot, there’s still a chance that you could fall ill this winter. If you do end up contracting the flu, don’t fret. Here are some of the things you can do to get yourself back to health.
Stay Home
If you have flu-like symptoms or a fever, it’s best to stay home until it subsides for at least 24 hours — unless you need to see a doctor. Common symptoms include:
- Runny nose
- Fever
- Chills
- Body aches
- Headache
- Dry cough
- Fatigue
Avoid going to school or work so you can prevent the infection from spreading to others. This also gives you time to rest and recuperate, supporting a speedy recovery.
Keep it Covered
If you do need to leave home to retrieve medications or visit a medical professional, be diligent about covering any coughs or sneezes to stop the spread of germs to others around you.
If possible, wear a mask for additional protection for yourself and others. As always, practice proper hygiene, like washing your hands often and avoiding touching your face after coming into contact with others to prevent further contamination.
Know When to Contact Your Doctor
According to the CDC, most of the people who get sick with the flu end up with mild symptoms that do not require medical attention.
However, if you fall into a high-risk group, like if you’re pregnant or over 65, it’s best to contact your primary care provider as soon as you develop symptoms.
You may be at a higher risk for flu complications based on your circumstances, which may require your provider to prescribe antiviral treatments.
Even if you aren’t considered high-risk, you may still need to seek medical care if you start to develop complications from the flu, which the CDC lists as a sinus or ear infection, pneumonia, myocarditis, encephalitis, or organ failure.
Stay Hydrated
The Mayo Clinic recommends drinking plenty of fluids when you’re at home recovering from the flu.
This isn’t exclusive to just water. It also includes soups, broths, and sports drinks to ensure your body is replenishing the minerals it needs to rehydrate.
Take Over-the-Counter Medications
Medical experts at the Mayo Clinic also recommend taking over-the-counter pain relievers that don’t require a prescription.
Options include acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and others, which help to relieve body aches and muscle soreness, as well as reduce your fever.
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Written by Bailey Schramm
