by Joshua Horn

Created on: February 21, 2011

The flu is a serious medical problem that kills hundreds of thousands of people worldwide every year. Those of us with strong immune systems usually survive, but suffer through aches, sneezing, coughing and fatigue. Despite its dangerous nature, there are a number of simple treatments that can drastically reduce the severity of flu symptoms. The following is a list of the best ways to fight the flu.

The best method for fighting the flu is also the easiest: drink plenty of fluids and get plenty of rest. The human body has a powerful immune system. But we need to give it the time and resources necessary to combat infection. Drinking fluids can help the body maintain healthy levels, preventing the dehydration that often accompanies the flu. Also, rest allows the body time to recover and rebuild while preventing the spread of virus that occurs when infected individuals go out for work and play.

Drinking hot liquids is a good home remedy for treating the flu, whether it is tea or soup. It helps the body replenish fluids, while providing heat that aids the natural response and clears nasal congestion. The body's innate response to infection is fever, which the body uses to kill viral proteins and prevent viral replication. By adding hot fluids to the body and taking hot showers or baths, infected individuals can help weaken the virus infection cycle and allow the body time to build immunity.

Despite this, helping the fever does little to make life with the flu any more comfortable. The heat waves and chills are usually the worst part of the flu, and other symptoms can make it even more miserable. If the infection is getting out of control, it's time to resort to 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.

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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