by Annie Jane

Created on: January 29, 2009

There are several things you can do to help your body heal faster during the flu, or influenza.

Number one thing is fluids. Fevers make you lose lots of body fluids, and you need to drink lots of fluids to get it back. Orange juice and Gatorade are really good to drink while you are sick. Also, all the fluids will strengthen your body and will help to start fighting that flu faster.

Next to fluids, food is important too. Of course you will not want to eat anything, but the food will help make you strong to fight off the flu. Chicken soup is the best thing you can eat when you're sick because it gives you nutrients and fluids. Hot fluids are ideal for most stopped up flu patients because it will relive nasal congestion and soother inflamed membrane lines in your throat.

Sleep is good, especially when fighting the flu. Sometimes lacking sleep can be the reason you got the flu in the first place. So, to reverse the effect, you need lots of good, proper sleep. Also, try to not do anything drastic, especially going to work. No one at work will appreciate getting sick from you either. So stay in bed as much as possible!

While you are resting, try heating up a wet washcloth in the microwave and setting it over your sinuses (or forehead). This can make you feel more comfortable. Or, if you would prefer a cool washcloth, it works the same way. If you do not have an ice back, froze vegetable bags make great substitutes.

Blowing your nose can help a lot, even though it sounds pointless. It is a good idea because otherwise you are just sniffing the mucus back up into your head.

Gargling will really help your sore throat. Put about a teaspoon of salt in warm water and let it dissolve. Due this about four to five times a day.

Steamy showers or baths are also a huge help when it comes to feeling under the weather. This will moisturize nasal passages, as well as relax you. If you are dizzy from the sickness, you can still have the hot water running while you sit nearby in a closed room, letting the steam relax you.

In really bad cases, medication can help your long flu journey; but it should diffidently be taken in moderation. Most flu medications can also cause severe complications if taken too much.

The ultimate treatment, of course is prevention. Seriously, why do you need to treat the flu or bother with the symptoms, if you never get it? It's as simple as a shot of a vaccination a year in order to prevent the nasty flu. Hand washing is also an excellent key to prevention.

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