by Joshua Horn

Created on: January 30, 2009   Last Updated: November 11, 2009

Every year, hundreds of thousands of people worldwide die from infections caused by the influenza virus, while many more survive but suffer through a miserable experience characterized by aches, coughing, sneezing, congestion, headache and fatigue. Thankfully, there are many ways to treat both the symptoms of the flu and the underlying viral infection.

1) Drink fluids and get rest. The most effective method for treating the flu is also the simplest: drink plenty of fluids and get plenty of rest. The human body's immune system is a powerful weapon against the flu virus and it simply needs time to build the appropriate antibodies. Dehydration is often the most debilitating symptom of the flu, so drinking fluids can help the body maintain healthy levels. Also, rest allows the body time to recuperate and rebuild while preventing the spread of virus that inevitably occurs when infected individuals choose to go to work or school.

2) Choose hot drinks and soup. Drinking hot liquids is an extremely effective home remedy for treating the flu, whether it is tea or soup. Not only does it help the body replenish fluids; it also provides heat that aids the body's immune response and helps clear nasal congestion. The body's natural response to influenza infection is fever, which the body uses to raise the the temperature to levels that can denature viral proteins and prevent viral replication. By adding hot fluids to the body and taking hot showers, infected individuals can help weaken the virus infection cycle and allow the body time to build immunity.

Unfortunately, aiding the fever does little to help make living through the flu more comfortable. The fever is usually the worst part of the flu, and other symptoms can make it even more miserable.

3) Consider medication if symptoms are severe. If the infection is getting out of control, it's time to consider medication. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help lower the fever, while nasal sprays can help break up mucus in the nose and chest. Antiviral drugs, like various neuraminidases, are very effective at stopping the progression of the flu virus. Studies have shown that these drugs can lower symptoms and shorten infection periods. However, infections in past years have shown increasing resistance to their effects and most researchers believe that increased use will breed more infectious strains of influenza.

4) Keep your family doctor informed. The last and most effective way to prevent serious complications from the flu is to see a family doctor. In many cases, flu infections can weaken the host immune system, leading to pneumonia and other respiratory diseases. Physicians can assess the progression of the flu and prescribe medications for the infection or the symptoms. By keeping a medical professional involved, infected individuals will have the resources available to stay safe and speed recovery if any complications arise or if the infection gets worse.

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