A Review Of Flu Treatment

2008-10-03 Word Count: 507 Category: Health & Fitness

By and large, an otherwise healthy person can fight off the flu virus in about five to seven days. Sometimes though the after effect of flue in the form of fatigue can linger on for a few more days. Flu symptoms, like body aches, sinus congestion, tiredness, and fever are normal and probably do not require an SOS to your doctor. Normally, getting plenty of rest, fluids, vitamin c and just plain sweating can expel the virus from your body.

There are special circumstances though, that may require you to involve your doctor when there is an illness caused by influenza. If the infected person is an infant, elderly, or someone with a chronic health affliction like bronchitis, heart disease, or HIV, then medical attention is recommended . Such type of patients have vulnerable immune systems and may not be able to fight off the viral infection. Flu symptoms should considered a warning if dealing with a person that has these underlying problems and you should contact your doctor immediately.

When monitoring your own, or your child's' fight against the flu, it is necessary to be alert to special attention should taken to spot a bacterial infection. It can be detected by examining the mucus excreted from the nose. Normally the mucus from your nose should be clear in color. If you notice a change in the color of this mucus, (color may vary depending on the severity of the infection), this may be a sign of bacterial infection. Influenza affects the lungs and increases the amount of mucus there. This will result in increased coughing. If the mucus from the lungs changes color, from clear to some other, then this could be a sign that bacteria has entered the lungs and you should consult your doctor immediately.

The flu typically causes increased fever and fatigue. This may result in a condition where standing on your own becomes harder. Such a simple thing may be a warning sign that the condition is turning from bad to worse and the ability to fend off the virus has lessened. You may also notice a headache and dizziness as the virus worsens. If you are unable to hold down liquids, this may also be cause for concern. Even a small quantity of vomiting suggests that the digestive system is affected by bacteria. Sufficient hydration is essential toward fighting off the flu, as the inability to keep fluids in your system will work against effective recovery.

If coughing persists, or becomes steadily worse, this could be cause for concern. Sore throat and chest pains could also be warnings of a worsening condition. If you or someone else is showing these signs, then consulting your doctor is recommended . A child is prone to showing such complications sooner, so be alert. Research indicates that these symptoms should usually begin to show in the third day for a child, and the fourth for an adult, approximately . It is however necessary to observe the patient for severe symptoms if and when they appear and .

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