Can I Treat the Flu at Home?

Flu rates are higher this year than they were last year. If the unfortunate happens and you get the flu, is it possible to effectively treat it in the comfort of your own home?

Our AFC Urgent Care Memphis team provides some answers below, so keep reading!

What Should I Know About the Flu?

The flu is caused by the influenza virus, which is an illness that attacks the respiratory system, including the lungs, nose and throat. Most cases of the flu aren’t a cause for serious concern; however, older adults, young children, those with compromised immune systems and pregnant women are at a higher risk of developing serious complications.

Additionally, the flu is much more common during the winter months. We’ve listed its most common symptoms below.

Common Flu Symptoms

  • Fever
  • Aches and pains throughout the body
  • Headaches
  • Chills
  • Sore throat
  • An extreme feeling of fatigue
  • A persistent and worsening cough
  • Stuffy or runny nose

Can I Treat the Flu at Home?

Sort of. Since the flu is caused by influenza viruses, it will need to run its course before it leaves your body.

The flu will usually live in the respiratory system between seven and 14 days, but there are some things you can do to limit its symptoms the best you can. We’ve listed them below!

Ways to Reduce Flu Symptoms

  • Stay home and get plenty of rest. Staying home will keep you from spreading the virus to anyone else, and resting will allow your body sufficient time to recuperate.
  • Drink lots of fluids. Water is the best choice, but consuming other liquids will help, too! Things like broth-based soup and tea will help to flush out thick mucus into a thin liquid you can cough up and spit out.
  • Ask your doctor about antiviral medications. Tamiflu is perhaps the best-known form of this type of medicine that is used to combat the flu. It only works, though, if it is taken within at least two days of the start of flu symptoms.

Are your flu symptoms causing you to feel concerned? Don’t hesitate to visit our AFC Urgent Care Memphis center to get further medical treatment, or you can give us a call if you need answers to your flu-related questions!