It’s flu season
Influenza, commonly called “flu,” is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza A or B viruses. The flu virus attacks the body by spreading through the upper and/or lower respiratory tract. The flu season starts most probably in November and can last to early spring.
Flu symptoms usually start suddenly and they include:
• Fever (however it may not happen),
• Body aches.
• Weakness or fatigue.
• Sore throat, runny nose and sneezing
• Warm, flushed skin and red, watery eyes.
• Headache
• Cough.
Most people recover in a few days. But the symptoms can sometimes get worse, like bacterial pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections, meningitis, and dehydration. Old people are at high risk or those with critical chronic diseases as heart failure, asthma, or a sort of immune disease.
The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that people get vaccinated against flu soon after vaccine becomes available, preferably by October. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body and provide protection against the flu. Children less than 6 months of age cannot be vaccinated so it’s better to take good care of their surrounding environment through the flu season.
Flu vaccines are designed to protect against the main flu viruses that research suggests will be the most common during the upcoming season. Three kinds of flu viruses commonly circulate among people today: Influenza A (H1N1) viruses, influenza A (H3N2) viruses, and influenza B viruses.
Flu treatment plans are mainly to ease the symptoms. Single or combinations of decongestants, antihistamines, analgesics/antipyretics, cough suppressants, and expectorants are used according to the symptoms.
There are some healthy advices that can be done to boost the immune system and help you recover quickly or even prevent you from catching flu such as:
• Washing Hands. This will decrease the probability of spreading a virus. Chemicals-free soap is the best choice for all the family. You can also use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol to clean your hands.
• Take a High-Quality Source of Animal-Based Omega-3 Fats. Increase your intake of healthy and essential fats like the omega-3 found in krill oil, which is crucial for maintaining health.
• Blow your nose regularly, when you have cold rather than sniffling mucus back. The best way to blow your nose: Press a finger over one nostril while you blow gently to clear the other. Wash your hands after blowing your nose.
• Steamy showers moisturize your nasal passages and relax you.
• Gargling can moisten a sore throat and bring relief.
• Hot liquids relieve nasal congestion, help prevent dehydration, and soothe the inflamed membranes of your nose and throat.
• Stay at home; don’t go to school or work. Resting will help charge your body with energy needed to fight the virus and you will also prevent spreading the illness.
• Try these natural Immune-Boosters. Examples include oil of oregano and garlic, both offer effective protection against a broad spectrum of bacteria, viruses, and protozoa in your body.
Almonds may help protect your immune system from the effects of stress.
Grapefruit also has a good amount of vitamin C needed for a healthy immune system. It’s also packed with flavonoids – natural chemical compounds which may reduce damage to cell DNA and cell membranes. Take care grapefruit can interact with some medicines, consult your doctor first.
Watermelons are hydrating and have the powerful antioxidant glutathione which helps maintain the body’s immune system.
Mushrooms as low in nutrients: it has the mineral selenium. Low levels of selenium have been linked to an increased risk of developing more severe flu. The B vitamins riboflavin and niacin, found in these mushrooms, may play a role in a healthy immune system.
Broccoli is an immune system basic. It’s full of nutrients that help maintain a healthy body. It has vitamin A, vitamin C and glutathione.
Echinacea. The Echinacea extract works against an enzyme called Hyaluronidase that destroys the body’s defenses against diseases.
Ginger has also been widely used to help treat the common cold, flu-like symptoms, headaches and painful menstrual periods. Try its herbal tea with lemon proven to be very effective.
Remember, serious conditions can disguise as the common cold and a mild infection can come into something more serious. If you have severe symptoms or are feeling sicker even on symptomatic treatment, please seek a doctor.