The flu is spreading like wildfire across North Texas. It's never fun to be sick so Dr. Rai will share tips on how to prevent catching the flu and how to recover from the flu if you get sick.
With the flu and many other illnesses, prevention is key.
- Getting a flu shot will significantly reduce your chances of catching the flu.
- Washing your hands often will help prevent the spread of the flu.
- Staying away from those who are sick also helps reduce your chances of getting sick.
- Also, keeping your immune system healthy by eating right and getting adequate sleep can help you fend off illness.
Despite your best efforts to stay healthy, you may end up getting sick with the flu. The flu, unlike the common cold, begins abruptly. You feel tired, your muscles ache, and you may run a fever or get chills.
What should you do if you get sick?
- Know when to seek medical care.
- You may be able to cut down the amount of time you spend sick with the flu if you can get antiviral drugs within 24-48 hours of when your symptoms first appear.
- Anyone can get the flu and problems related to the flu can happen at any age, but some people are at high risk of developing serious complications.
- If you are in a “high risk” group and develop flu symptoms, you should get medical care as early as possible.
- If you are sick, you should stay home and avoid contact with other people except to get medical care.
You can also do some things to help reduce the symptoms related to flu.
- Get plenty of rest.
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Treat aches, fever and cough with over the counter medications.
As harsh as the flu may be, the good news is that most people with the flu feel better within one to two weeks, with severe symptoms subsiding in two to three days. If you experience any complications related to the flu, follow up with your physician immediately. Stay well. But if you need us, we are here!
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