Code Flu: 4 Successful Coping Methods 

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Highlights: 

• What is the flu?
• Which foods and drinks can help us when we have the flu? 
• Rest as part of treatment 
• What kind of medicines are used to cure it? 
• Why and how are inhalations effective? 

The “flu” also known as influenza, is a viral infection caused by a specific genus of viruses that can lead to severe symptoms and complications in certain people. People rather often mistakenly called other illneses (such as the common cold) “the flu” even though they are not the same. Influenza, with its characteristic symptoms and frustrtaing impact on our daily lives, often requires a specially catered approach to deal with it. In this article, we’ll explore four successful methods that help you not only cope with the symptoms, but also maintain your immunity and protect yourself from the flu. From homemade treatments to products we can source from a pharmacy, we’ll look at how to deal with the flu that often challenges us during the cold months. 

In addition to these well-known methods, we’ll suggest adding a different treatment that has proven its effectiveness. Influenza in itself is not an inherently serious illness, but in a prolonged state it can result in serious problems. This is why it’s important to know what options you have at your disposal to further support your health. In relation to this, taking medications through the use of a nebulizer and inhalations like the Zano Inspire can become part of your regular arsenal during flu season. 

Influenza disease 

Influenza, is a respiratory tract infection that is caused by viruses. These viruses are easily transmitted from person to person, especially in the colder months and can cause varying degrees of illness, from mild to severe cases. Influenza usually begins with a sudden rise in temperature that can reach up to 38 degrees Celsius or more, accompanied by muscle aches and general weakness in the body. The illness often causes sore throat, dry cough and headache. A stuffy nose and sometimes eye pain are also part of the usual symptoms. 

In addition to these symptoms, the flu can also lead to serious complications. The most vulnerable groups to complications are children under 12, adults over 65 and pregnant women. People with health problems such as diabetes, chronic lung disease, or weak immunity are also more likely to have serious complications from the flu. Some of the possible complications include pneumonia, inflammation of the heart, brain and muscle tissues, which can cause serious problems.  

Influenza is usually an illness that can be dealt with mainly through home treatment and rest, but it is important to seek medical attention immediately for the following symptoms:  

• Difficulty breathing 

• Pain in the chest or abdomen 

• Dizziness or strong disorientation 

• Continuously high fever that does not go down even when taking medicines to lower the temperature 

• Muscle pain that is much stronger than standard 

• Lack of urination, which is a sign of severe dehydration 

Foods and drinks suitable for influenza 

When we are at home and we want to look for some natural ways to cope with the flu, we can pay attention to some foods and drinks with beneficial effects. Although foods and beverages do not have as direct and quick an effect as medication, they can provide symptom relief, comfort, and aid the healing process. 

Chicken soup, in addition to mothers and grandmothers, is recommended for the flu even by medical specialists. It provides hydration and contains nutrients that support the immune system. The heat from the broth can also ease a sore throat and help with falling asleep.  

Tea is also a classic home method in the treatment of influenza. In addition to the warm liquid again providing relief and hydration, depending on the type of tea, we may benefit from additional beneficial effects. A preferred option is ginger tea as it is rich in antioxidants, has antimicrobial qualities and can help in the presence of muscle aches. Another suitable tea is echinacea, which is an herb with proven qualities for flu and colds. It can boost the immune system to help the body cope with the virus [1]. 

To the tea we can add honey, which also has useful properties for dealing with the disease. Honey is known for its antimicrobial and soothing properties that can help in relieving cough and healing the throat. It is also recommended to consume vitamin C when suffering from flu, as this vitamin supports the functions of our immune system. We can easily add vitamin C from any citrus fruits and also from leafy green vegetables.  

Apart from honey, garlic also has antimicrobial properties. Garlic contains a variety of substances that can boost the immune system and help clear the virus. Consuming garlic can also be applied as a preventive measure when the active flu season has begun. 

Why is rest important? 

Recovering from the flu not only requires active treatment, but also increased self-care, which includes enough time for rest and sleep. Rest is a key element in speeding up the healing and recovery process of the body after encountering the flu virus. Staying home when we are sick also prevents the spread of the virus to other people. 

Rest plays a key role in successful flu treatment for several important reasons. When the body is battling a viral infection, it is essential to allow enough time to recover and support the immune system. This is why rest is considered a key element of a flu treatment regimen. During the period of illness, the body uses a significant amount of energy fighting the infection.  

Allowing enough time to rest allows the body to focus its resources on healing and recovery so that it can quickly and effectively fight off flu symptoms. In addition, quality sleep is important for dealing with any infection, as healthy sleep significantly boosts the immune system. 

Medicines to calm symptoms 

The use of over-the-counter medications can help relieve a variety of flu symptoms. Before starting such medications, it is advisable to consult your doctor, especially if you have other health problems or are taking other medications. Here’s which medications you may want to consider: 

• Analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs. To relieve pain, muscle aches, and reduce body temperature, over-the-counter analgesics and anti-inflammatory medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen are available. 

• Dehydration and sore throat. Products with vitamin C and electrolytes can be helpful in preventing dehydration, and special herbal products and drinks can help relieve sore throats. 

• Medicines to relieve cough and sore throat. Various pills and syrups are available that do not require a prescription and relieve cough or sore throat. Most often they are herbal based, but may provide some relief for the throat. 

• Nose sprays. Nasal sprays can be of two types. One contains active ingredients that act quickly on the nasal mucosa and unclog effectively, but should not be taken for a long time. The others are usually saline-based, and they do not act as quickly but can be applied more frequently and for longer periods. 

Soothing your symptoms lightens your body and allows your immune system to deal with the virus more easily. It is important to follow the directions on the package and consult your doctor if questions arise or if symptoms persist. 

Inhalations as a method of flu treatment 

Inhalations are a proven method of clearing the upper respiratory tract and aiding in nasal congestion, and can be extremely helpful in the treatment of influenza [2] Some of the beneficial properties of inhalations include: 

• Dissolution of secretions in the lungs. In influenza, the infection often affects the upper and lower respiratory tract, causing an accumulation of secretions and mucous in the lungs. Inhalation helps these secretions to dissolve and become more fluid, making it easier to get them out of the airways. 

• Helping to clear the nasal passages. With the flu, a stuffy nose is often a problem. Steam inhalation can help unclog nasal passages by dissolving secretions and making it easier to clean the nose[2].  

• Moisturizing dry and irritated airways. Steam inhalation moistens the air we breathe and helps to hydrate the airways. This can reduce irritation and discomfort when breathing. 

• Facilitating breathing. The heat and humidity from the steam help to dilate the bronchi and airways, which can make breathing easier for flu symptoms. 

• Helps the immune system. The warming effect of inhalation on the airways and nasal passages also contributes to improved circulation to these sites, which helps immune cells reach and deal with the viral infection. 

Inhalations can be done simply by heating water in a saucepan and inhaling the steam under a towel, but this method has inconveniences and dangers. The method requires standing in an awkward posture and an uncomfortable feeling on the skin of the face. There is also a real danger of burning from the hot steam. This is why nebulizers such as the Zano Inspire have been developed, which provide additional benefits in addition to convenience.  

Specific medications have been developed for compressor nebulizers such as the Zano Inspire. It produces aerosols of optimal size for maximum effective therapy. It is extremely easy to use and is also a good option for respiratory not only for adults but also for children as it comes with two mask sizes. The low noise levels are consistent with a normal conversation at home and the size is extremely small – it fits in a human palm and in any handbag. You can also purchase it with Alphabet Cards, as Zano supports early childhood speech-language development. 

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FAQ: 

 When is the flu no longer contagious? 

• Influenza is usually considered contagious for about 5-7 days after the onset of symptoms. However, the virus can also be transmitted by infected people a day or two before symptoms begin. A personal immune system and effective treatment can help overcome the active phase of the viral infection. Once the active phase is over and symptoms are under control, the risks of flu transmission drop significantly. However, it is important to remember that influenza viruses can survive on surfaces for varying periods. For this reason, it is important to maintain hygienic practices, such as regular hand washing and cleaning common surfaces, to prevent the spread of the virus. 

Why does flu occur in winter? 

• Influenza occurs more often in winter, probably due to several factors. Closer contact in the colder months, when we stay indoors more, can help spread the virus more easily. In addition, human immunity may be weaker during the cold months, making the body more vulnerable to infection. Cold air is also typically drier, making it easier for virus particles to spread. 

Can flu disappear without treatment? 

• Influenza most often does not require specific treatment. The body’s personal immunity usually manages to cope with the infection. Rest, sufficient fluid consumption and proper self-care can help fight the symptoms and speed up the recovery process. It is important to relieve flu symptoms, making it easier for the body to cope with the infection. However, in some cases where symptoms are severe or there are risks of complications, it is advisable to consult a doctor. 

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Sources: 

• https://www.cdc.gov/flu/symptoms/symptoms.htm     

• https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/flu/symptoms-causes/syc-20351719  

• https://www.healthline.com/health/cold-flu/home-remedies#garlic 

• https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/garlic-fights-colds-and-flu#TOC_TITLE_HDR_3  

• https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/features/treating-flu-at-home  

• https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/medicines-for-colds-and-flu  

• https://thekingsleyclinic.com/steam-inhalation-in-people-with-influenza-a-complete-how-to-guide-and-its-benefits/  

References: 

1. Weishaupt, R., et al., Safety and Dose-Dependent Effects of Echinacea for the Treatment of Acute Cold Episodes in Children: A Multicenter, Randomized, Open-Label Clinical Trial. Children (Basel), 2020. 7(12).The data presented in this study underpins the advantageous safety profile of Echinaforce Junior tablets and provides evidence for clinical effects to treat common cold symptoms in children. An increase of the daily EFJ dose from three to five tablets seemed to shorten the average cold duration by up to 1.7 days and after 10 days resolved >90% of episodes completely. The overall need for antibiotics under the study conditions was low. Pediatricians may consider EFJ as a valuable and safe option for the acute treatment of respiratory tract infections in their young clients. 

Gujrathi, A.B., V. Ambulgekar, and A. Handal, Effect of steam inhalation on nasal mucociliary clearance in normal individuals and nasal disease state. Int J Contemp Med Res, 2016. 3(5): p. 1262-1264.The nasal mucociliary clearance time for the cases before steam inhalation was 10.9 minutes with the standard deviation of 4.4. 1 hour after steam inhalation it was 9.3 minutes with standard deviation of 4.2 and after 24 hours 8.7 minutes with standard deviation of 4.Similarly, the nasal mucociliary clearance time for the controls before steam inhalation was 8.2 minutes with standard deviation of 3.8. 1 hour after steam inhalation it was 7.1 min with standard deviation of 3.2 and after 24 hours 6.7 minutes with standard deviation of 3.2 were found. Hence, Steam Inhalation Deinitely Improves Nasal Mucociliary Clearance and also symptomatology of our patient were drastically reduced.