Understanding and Treating Influenza (Flu): Symptoms & Remedies

Influenza is one of the most common contagious diseases. Known more commonly as the flu, influenza is a viral infection that's spread through tiny germs. Influenza can affect people in a host of different ways, including sneezing, coughing and physical exhaustion. In addition to the steps you can take to prevent exposing yourself to influenza germs, there are several ways to treat the disease once you've been stricken.

Things You'll Need

• Nasal spray
• Antibiotic
• Clear fluids
• Prescription drugs

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Instructions

• 1

  Get plenty of nourishing rest. Call in sick and spend as much of the day in bed as possible. By sleeping and resting, you'll allow your body's natural immune system plenty of opportunities to fight influenza on its own.

• 2

  Drink lots of fluids. Stay away from alcoholic beverages, as alcohol can inhibit your body's ability to recover. Drink plenty of clear fluids, and look for drinks that are rich in vitamins and other nutrients.

• 3

  Ask your doctor to prescribe an antibiotic to treat any bacterial complications that frequently occur when suffering from influenza. Your doctor will prescribe a regiment of pills to be taken over a specified period of time. Even if your symptoms ease, you'll need to continue the antibiotic schedule to completion.

• 4

  Report to your doctor as soon as possible, and see about getting a prescription for drugs like Amantadine or Rimantadine. These medications have been approved to treat certain kinds of influenza. You can also take these drugs as a preventative step to guard against the risk of influenza exposure.