reviewed by dr. Shabrina Wakid
Flu is an infection in the upper respiratory tract caused by the influenza virus. This virus is not the same as viruses that cause other respiratory tract infections, such as the common cold or cold cough in general. To prevent the flu from getting worse, there are several ways to get rid of the flu quickly that you can apply.
Flu is a disease that should not be taken lightly. Therefore, so as not to cause complications, know some of the following ways to quickly get rid of the flu.
Differences in Flu and Common Cold Symptoms
The flu and the common cold are often thought of as the same condition. In fact, flu symptoms are generally more serious than common cold coughs. Here are some flu symptoms you need to know:
- Cough.
- Constant sneezing.
- Sore throat.
- Chest pain.
- Nasal congestion.
- Fever over 38 degrees Celsius.
- Muscle ache.
- Headache.
- Weak.
- shivers.
Although the common cold is also characterized by persistent sneezing, coughing and sore throat, other symptoms, such as chest pain, fever and headache, are generally classified as mild or rarely appear.
Know How to Get Rid of a Cold Fast
The flu is caused due to a viral infection. Therefore, the key to getting rid of the flu quickly is a strong immune system so that you can ward off the viruses that cause the flu. Some ways to increase endurance are drinking more water so you don’t get dehydrated, exercising regularly, getting more rest, and eating foods that can boost your body’s immunity, for example chicken soup, milk, low-fat meat, oranges and lemons, ginger, honey, or yogurt.
In addition, to relieve flu symptoms, such as fever, cough and runny nose, you can take pain relievers. For cases of flu that are classified as serious, medical treatment is needed, for example giving antiviral drugs by a doctor.
Effective Ways to Prevent the Flu
Influenza virus is transmitted via droplet expelled by the patient when coughing or sneezing. Droplet Those infected with the virus are at risk of being inhaled by healthy people or sticking to objects that sufferers touch. If these objects are touched by healthy people, there is a risk of infection. To reduce the risk of transmission of the flu, here are some ways to prevent the flu that you can apply:
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and running water before eating or before touching your face.
- Keep your distance from other flu sufferers.
- If you can’t wash your hands with soap and water, hand sanitizers with an alcohol content of at least 60 percent can be an option.
- Influenza vaccination.
- Use your own towels, clothes, cutlery or toothbrush and don’t share them with others.
- Cover sneezes or coughs with a tissue or elbow. After that, wash your hands thoroughly.
- Avoid crowds. The easiest way to spread the flu is in places where people gather, such as public transportation, office buildings or shopping centers.
- Clean anything that is frequently touched to prevent the spread of the flu.
Those are some ways to get rid of the flu quickly and the differences in flu and common cold symptoms that you need to know. Make sure your immune system is maintained, because people with weak immune systems are at risk of pneumonia when they have the flu. In addition, if the flu doesn’t heal for more than one week, or the symptoms get worse, you should consult a doctor to be given the right treatment.
