Effective Ways To Treat The Flu

The flu, which is also known as influenza, is a contagious illness caused by the influenza virus. This virus primarily affects the respiratory system and results in mild to severe symptoms, including a fever, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headache, as well as chills, coughing, fatigue, and body aches. Although most assume the flu is the result of one virus, there are actually several types of the flu, though some are more common than others. When battling the flu, individuals need to know all potential treatment options so they can fight it with all of the best remedies. Additionally, several of the treatment options available also act as preventative measures.

Antiviral Medications

Antiviral medications target the influenza virus in the body to decrease the duration of a case of the flu by one to two days. Antiviral drugs can also help lessen the severity of flu symptoms and prevent complications at the same time. There are three major antiviral medications designed to treat the flu, each of which comes with its own delivery route. Oseltamivir is administered orally, zanamivir is an inhalant, and peramivir is an intravenous medication. They are typically prescribed for five days and can be taken by children and pregnant women. Side effects from these medications are rare, but include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, congestion, and headache.