Autumn is almost here. It is a magical season that creates one of the most breathtaking landscapes. However, this season also brings something that no one is happy about – the seasonal flu. Since the pandemic, the thought of sneezing has become terrifying. Luckily, things started to stabilise, but the seasonal flu is still here. It can be annoying when your nose starts to run, you get chills, and you start feeling extremely tired. On top of all, you have to deal with a sore throat.
If you wonder “How do you treat seasonal flu at home?” – there are several over-the-counter medicines and home remedies to ease the symptoms, so let’s look into some of the more popular options.
Ease Pain with Sore Throat Relief Medicine
A sore throat is one of the most annoying symptoms of the flu. Your tonsils swell, and it’s painful, especially when talking or swallowing, and of course, you get that hoarse voice. Oh, and not to mention the inability to eat anything due to pain.
This is why you should get sore throat relief medicine to ease the symptoms. Luckily, there are many pharmacies online, so you don’t have to leave your house in your state. When browsing their range, you’ll find useful remedies such as sore throat gargles. Some of those gargles contain an anti-bacterial formula that helps treat your condition. Depending on the type of gargle, you may need to dilute it first with the help of a measuring cup included in the package.
Another alternative you can try is sore throat lozenges. There are many throat lozenges you can choose from, and each of them can effectively relieve throat soreness. In addition, some of them may help with other accompanying symptoms such as nasal congestion and dry cough. They have refreshing and soothing flavours such as menthol, honey and lemon, eucalyptus, herbal, etc. Each lozenge dissolves in the mouth and releases the medicine for fast pain relief.
Finally, if your throat feels worse by constantly coughing and you need something that will instantly relieve the pain, then a throat spray is your best bet. Spray it directly into the back of your throat. It will act fast and ease the symptoms of throat soreness and cough.
However, keep in mind that all of these medicines will obviously not relieve fever. If your body temperature is above 38C, try to lower it down by taking a shower with lukewarm water. If that’s not helping, try taking ibuprofen, aspirin or something else you have at home.
Unclog Your Nostrils with Nasal Drops and Steam Inhalation
There is nothing worse than a stuffy nose because then you’re forced to breathe through your mouth. Not only does it dry out your mouth fast, but it makes you cough even more since it’s drying up your throat as well. The number one thing you should do is drink lots of liquids to stay hydrated. This will thin out the mucus and relieve the congestion. If you’re looking for an instant solution, then getting nasal saline drops or sprays can offer fast relief.
Since you are staying at home, you can also clear a stuffy nose with steam inhalers. They are a good option for providing relief from the cold. However, if you don’t have a steam inhaler at home, you can boil some water, pour it into a bowl and stand over it with a towel, inhaling the steam, which will unblock your nose.
Drink Tea with Honey
Tea is beneficial to your health, especially when you have the flu. It keeps you hydrated, and most importantly, it boosts your immune system. There are many choices available to you, such as chamomile (anti-inflammatory), hibiscus (contains a high amount of antioxidants), nettle tea (rich in vitamin C and carotene), and others.
You can sweeten your drink and make it more soothing by adding honey. This may ease symptoms of congestion and sore throat as well as suppress your cough.
Don’t Be Afraid of the Smell, Eat Garlic
Garlic is a natural health bomb. This nutritious plant fights many viruses, bacteria, and other parasites. Its odour can linger for several hours, but since you’re at home, you might as well try it. Try adding it into your diet even when you get better. Garlic is extremely beneficial for not only treating, but also preventing colds due to its strong antimicrobial properties.
Eat Chicken Soup
When you’re sick, the last thing that comes to your mind is eating. But that is why chicken soup is the ideal food. It is full of healthy components that boost your immunity and it’s easy to swallow so it won’t make your throat hurt.
Mixing onions and garlic along with the other vegetables provides your body with phytonutrients (a substance found in plants that protects cells from damage). Also, when your body absorbs the gelatine from the broth, it uses it to reduce inflammation, which will help you get better soon.
Take Probiotics
Probiotics are “good” bacteria and yeast that exist in your body. You can also get them from some supplements, and some foods. They’re found to fight off respiratory infections such as the common flu. One of the best probiotic foods is yoghurt, which also provides your body with calcium.
Take Vitamin C
Vitamin C has a lot of benefits for your health. It is one of the first things your doctor will recommend if you have the flu. It is a great antioxidant and getting enough of it daily may speed up your recovery. You can either get it from fruits such as lemons or take it as a supplement.
To Sum Up
Being sick is not the most fun experience but you will get through it, like always. Make sure you have some sore throat medications and other home remedies on hand, and in a few days, you will be back on your feet, ready to continue your normal lifestyle. And lastly, don’t skip your needed sleep since this is when your body focuses on repairing itself.
