As the winter season settles in, so does flu season—a time when sniffles, coughs, and fevers seem to be everywhere. Despite best efforts to stay healthy, catching the flu can sometimes feel unavoidable. Whether it’s from close contact with others or simply being in shared spaces, the flu virus spreads quickly, leaving many of us feeling drained and unwell. If you’re one of the unlucky ones battling this seasonal bug, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide filled with tips to help ease flu symptoms and support your body’s recovery.
Plenty of rest
One of the most important tips to easing flu symptoms is by resting. Your body needs the energy from resting to fight off the flu virus so by pushing through daily tasks when you’re sick can actually worsen symptoms and even prolong recovery.
You can achieve this by:
- Take naps
- Stay in bed
- Take days off work/school
Stay hydrated
Flu symptoms such as intense fevers, sweating, vomiting or diarrhoea can lead to dehydration.It’s important that you drink plenty of fluids to help your body stay hydrated.
You can achieve this by drinking the following:
- Clear broths
- Drinks with electrolytes
- Soups
- Decaf tea
- Hot water with lemon or ginger
- Herbal teas with lemon
Try to avoid any caffeinated or alcoholic beverages as they can further dehydrate you and make flu symptoms worse.
Use pain relief medications wisely
There are various over the counter and non prescription products available that can help manage your flu symptoms.
- Fever and aches – Ibuprofen is best for easing any aches or muscle pain you may have.
- Congestion – Decongestants or any saline nasal sprays can relieve stuffy noses.
- Cough – Cough suppressants, sweets and syrups can provide relief, this does depend on the type of cough you have.
It’s vital that you follow any dosage instructions and consult a healthcare professional if you have any other underlying conditions or if you are unsure what medication its right for you. You can also consult the electric medicines compendium for any up to date patient information on any medicines you are taking.
Try steam and humidifiers
Steam and humidifiers help relieve flu symptoms by adding moisture back into the air, which soothes dry nasal passages, loosens mucus, reduces congestion, and eases breathing. They can also calm irritated throats, alleviate sinus pain, and support better sleep.
Note:
Use steam carefully to avoid burns, and keep humidifiers clean to prevent mould or bacteria growth.
Eat nourishing foods
Whilst your appetite might be low, it’s essential that you try your best to provide your body with nutrients to help your body recover. Try eating foods that are easily digestible or comforting.
This can include:
- Soups – particularly chicken soup as it has anti inflammatory properties.
- Toast
- Plain crackers
- Oatmeal
Practice good hygiene to prevent spreading the flu
When you have the flu, it’s important that you take precautions around others to minimise spreading the flu even further.
You can do this by:
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
- Wash your hands frequently with antibacterial soap and water.
- Disinfect surfaces like doorknobs, light switches and phones.
When should you seek medical attention with the flu?
Whilst most flu cases resolve on their own, some flu symptoms may indicate complications like pneumonia or dehydration which requires urgent medical attention.
You should get an urgent GP appointment or call 111 if you experiencing any of the following:
- Your symptoms do not improve after 7 days
- You are pregnant
- You’re over the age 65
- You have a weakened immune system
- You have a long term medical illness
You should go to A&E or call 999 immediately if you experience any of the following:
- You are coughing up blood
- Are struggling to breathe
- You feel sudden chest pain
Flu treatments at Be Well
Here at Be Well, we offer a range of treatments available to help ease your flu symptoms. Start by completing the quick and easy consultation below.