Influenza is a respiratory disease with a viral origin. It is considered to be highly contagious. However, the thing that makes flu more tricky than other diseases is that it can be spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Touching or contact with an infected person can also spread this disease. An infected person is already contagious even if he has not displayed any of the symptoms yet. He remains contagious up to seven days after getting sick. It is common confused with a severe case of the common cold. Symptoms of influenza include high fever, headache, chills, cold sweats, painful joints and limbs, fatigue, nausea, diarrhoea and vomiting. The symptoms may persist for at least seven days. There are many ways to treat this respiratory disease without resorting to medication.
Inhale Aromatic Steam
Fill your bathroom sink or a small basin with steaming hot water and infuse it with two teaspoons of freshly grated ginger. Lean over the sink and drape a towel over your head to inhale the steam fully. Another method is to add mentholated rub to the steaming water. You can also add several drops of eucalyptus oil to the hot water. Eucalyptus is very effective in easing blocked bronchial tubes and relieving congestion.
Warm Showers
Take a warm shower with the doors closed to lock in the steam and turn your bathroom into a sauna to ease flu symptoms. The steam will decongest your blocked airways and loosen the mucus in your sinus. This will make it easier for you to breath.
Increase Fluid Intake
The symptoms of the flu can be eliminated by increasing fluid intake. Keep yourself hydrated by drinking a minimum of 8 glasses a day. Drinking lots of fluids will hydrate your respiratory system and thin out the mucus that has built up. Aside from water, you can also drink other fluids such as juices. It is best to avoid coffee and alcoholic drinks because they can cause dehydration.
Use Saline Sprays
The mucus tends to thicken when you are sick with the flu, making it difficult to breathe. Saline sprays have been proven to be very effective in thinning the mucus and lessening postnasal drip. It also moistens the mucous membranes that have dried out. Using saline sprays when you have the flu also flushes out the bacteria and virus from your nose. Saline sprays are basically made out of salt and water. They can be bought in any pharmacy or grocery. They are also safe for children.
Use A Humidifier
Flu symptoms can worsen if the air inside your home is very dry. You can add moisture to the air in your bedroom by using a warm mist humidifier or a vaporizer. You can place it beside your bed so you sleep more peacefully. The added moisture in the air can help relieve the congestion in your chest and nose. Clean the humidifier every day to prevent the growth of molds and bacteria. You can use a small amount of bleach to clean the humidifier.
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