Treating Flu Symptoms

Nasal Congestion

If your nose feels stuffed, one solution is to irrigate your nasal passages using a saline solution. This will ease your breathing by shrinking swollen mucous membranes, leaving more room for air to get through.

Your pharmacist can also make recommendations for medication, such as antihistamines, pseudoephedrine and other decongestants for optimal relief. If you have medical conditions, such as high blood pressure or diabetes, be sure to check with your pharmacist for products that will not affect your condition.

Sore Throat

A sore throat can be soothed by regular gargling sessions. Use a solution of 1 teaspoon of salt dissolved in 1 cup (240 ml) of water. Humidifiers, cough lozenges and cough drops may also offer you temporary relief.

Fever

You can treat fever by taking non-prescription medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Other ways to manage fever include removing excess clothing and bedding, increasing fluid intake, maintaining an outside temperature of 20–21°C, and avoiding physical exertion.

Aches and Muscle Pain

Body aches and pain are more difficult to treat without medication. Getting plenty of rest will help shorten the duration of these symptoms. However, if you want to relieve your pain, you can take non-prescription medications such as ibuprofen, while validating the indication with your pharmacist.

The treatments recommended above may help alleviate the symptoms, but they won’t make you any less contagious. It’s always best to stay home to avoid infecting your friends and co-workers.

That being said, head out to visit your pharmacist for recommendations for your symptoms.

Note: If you have had the flu for more than 10 days, please see your doctor.