Flu remedies at home: How to feel better...faster

It’s that time of year again. When the flu hits, it can leave you feeling miserable and unsure of what to do next. Understanding what to do when you have the flu, especially when it comes to finding effective flu remedies at home, can help you feel better faster and prevent the spread of the virus.

And while there’s a lot of information out there on how to avoid the flu, there’s not always clarity about what to do when you have the flu. If despite your best efforts (including an annual flu vaccination) you still come down with a case of the flu, here’s what to do.

What are the most common flu symptoms?

First off, it’s helpful to identify what the flu is and how it feels. Flu symptoms can range from mild to severe, and because the flu affects people in many ways, you may not have all the symptoms:

• Fever
• Cough
• Body aches
• Headaches
• Chills
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

Children are more likely than adults to experience nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.

It’s important to differentiate the flu from other respiratory illnesses like the common cold, as the flu can sometimes lead to more serious health problems. Keep in mind that the flu tends to hit suddenly and strongly, while other respiratory illnesses are typically more mild and come on gradually.

5 flu remedies at home

If you find yourself wondering what to do if you think you have the flu, start by taking these steps at home.

1. Rest and relax: Rest is crucial for recovery. Your body needs energy to fight off the infection, so make sleep a priority. Using a humidifier to add moisture to the air can ease coughing and congestion and help you sleep better.
2. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids like water, herbal tea or clear broths. This helps to thin mucus, keep your throat moist and reduce fever. Warm liquids like herbal teas or broths can be particularly soothing.
3. Eat well: Nourish your body with healthy foods that support your immune system. Fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins and antioxidants, such as oranges, berries and leafy greens, are great choices. Comforting foods like chicken soup can provide hydration and essential nutrients. Avoid processed foods and sugary snacks, as they can hinder your recovery.
4. Take over-the-counter (OTC) medication: Pain relievers like acetaminophen and ibuprofen can help reduce fever, headaches and body aches. Decongestants and antihistamines can also relieve nasal congestion and other respiratory symptoms, making it easier to breathe and sleep.
5. Take time and stay home if needed: To avoid spreading the virus to others and give your body the rest it needs, stay home. Find a quiet, comfortable place where you can relax without interruptions. Time is your friend.

One big thing to remember is that the flu is a virus, and viruses cannot be treated with antibiotics. Antibiotics are medications that can only treat bacteria and are completely useless against the flu, and in fact, can leave you feeling sicker if used inappropriately.

So that’s the bad news about the flu: there are very few medications that can be used to treat it. However, the good news about the flu is that most people can feel better and recover quickly with a few flu remedies at home.

Please remember, if you have the flu—especially if you have a fever—you are contagious. Stay home and away from others until you feel better and have been without fever for at least 24 hours.

Emergency warning signs of flu

After exhausting all the flu remedies at home, it’s important to recognize when it may be time to seek medical help. If you experience difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, confusion or severe dehydration—signs include reduced urination and dizziness—contact a healthcare provider immediately.

If you are someone in the “high risk” group and think you may have the flu, see your doctor right away. “High risk” means you have a more likely chance to have a severe case of the flu and need immediate treatment with an antiviral medication. This includes young children, people 65 years and older, pregnant women, people with suppressed immune systems and people with certain other medical issues.

If you fall in that group or are unsure if your medical history puts you at high risk, it is important to see your doctor as soon as your symptoms begin. Antiviral medications must be started as quickly as possible to be effective.

Symptoms of severe flu may include:

• Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
• Lethargy or confusion
• Inability to hold down water
• High fever with rash
• Persistent headache

Getting care for the flu

When you talk to or visit your healthcare provider, tell them about your symptoms, including their onset and severity, along with detailing the flu remedies at home that you have tried. This information helps your doctor make an accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment.

In some cases, especially for those with underlying health conditions or weakened immune systems, prompt medical attention may be necessary to prevent additional complications. Ultimately, assess your symptoms and talk to your healthcare provider to decide the best course of action to help you feel better quickly.

For minor illnesses and injuries, virtual care gives you access to expert care whenever and wherever you need it. But you know your body best. If your symptoms persist or you feel you need an in-person evaluation, contact your provider or find an Urgent Care+ location near you.