The Flu and What to Do About It!

The "flu" or also known as influenza, is a highly contagious viral infection of the upper respiratory tract.

Because the flu can spread easily by coughing and sneezing, influenza epidemics are very common, especially in winter.

More than 200 different viruses can cause colds and flu, and strains of these viruses are constantly changing, so vaccinations against the flu have only been partly successful in preventing epidemics of the disease.

The symptoms of influenza begin much like those of the common cold:

* Headache

* Fatigue

* Body aches

In many cases, a fever develops, and you may feel unbearably hot one moment and chilled and shaking the next.

* Most influenza sufferers have a dry throat and cough.

* Nausea and vomiting may occur

Often, a person with the flu is so weak and so uncomfortable that he or she doesn't feel like eating or doing anything else.

Influenza is rarely dangerous in healthy adults sixty years of age or younger, but it does make a person more susceptible to:

* Pneumonia

* Ear infections

* Sinus trouble

Among people sixty five or older, serious respiratory infections such as pneumonia and influenza are the fifth leading cause of death, so the flu is clearly a serious infection for older people.

Don't give aspirin to a child who has the flu. The combination of aspirin and a viral illness has been linked to the development of Reye's syndrome, a potentially dangerous complication.

Sleep and rest as much as possible.

Take hot chicken or turkey soup. This is grandmother's old remedy and it is still good today. Add a bit of cayenne pepper to help prevent and break up congestion.

Consume plenty of fluids, especially fresh juices, herbal teas, soups, and quality water, to prevent dehydration and help flush out the body.

The "flu shot" and it's usefulness is questionable. The side effects may be worse than the flu would be. Enhancement of immune function is preferable and safer.

Antibiotics are useless against viral illnesses like influenza. The best way to get rid of the flu or any other infectious illness is to attack it head-on by strengthening the immune system.

If you are over 65, see your health care provider. Influenza can cause serious complications for people in this age group.