Influenza is also known as flu. It is an infectious disease in the human community caused by a particular group of viruses. It begins with cough, cold and mild fever. If not taken care of, this disease takes a fatal form. We often sit carelessly thinking that cough is only a cold, but the body has to bear the payment of this carelessness.


what is influenza

Influenza is a type of virus, which is a highly contagious disease of our respiratory system. There are three types of flu A, B, C. Of these, A and B cause influenza, while type C also shows flu-like symptoms, but this type of flu is rare. Influenza virus enters our body through nose, eyes and mouth. Also, it spreads from person to person by coughing, sneezing or being in contact with him. If any one member in the house has been afflicted by this disease, then the other members are also unable to remain untouched by it.

its symptoms

  •  In this, fatigue is often felt and the body remains unwell.
  •  There is a accumulation of phlegm in the throat, there is difficulty in swallowing anything.
  •  Feeling very weak. Dizziness starts when walking or doing some work.
  •  Feels chills, along with fever. Fever may be high or low. Fever can range from 100 to 103 degrees. But as the disease progresses, the fever reaches 106 degrees.
  •  It gets pretty boring. There is a lot of sneezing. There is a feeling of difficulty in breathing, as well as shortness of breath.
  •  The skin turns blue.
  •  Muscle pain and headache begin.


what is the treatment

  •  The use of heat provides relief from stiffness and pain in this disease. Use an electric heating pad or fill a bottle with hot water and place it on your chest, back, or where you feel pain.
  •  Due to fever, the body becomes dehydrated. To make up for this deficiency and get rid of the disease, it is necessary to take more fluids than usual. Drink warm liquids such as tea or lukewarm water. With this, along with the supply of water in the body, the throat gets relief and it is easy to clear the sinuses.
  •  Boil ajwain in water till the water reduces to half. Keep drinking water from time to time. Drink normal water only after boiling it.
  •  Herbs are considered helpful in reducing body temperature in illness. Take them in the form of a decoction.
  •  Keep away from cold and stale food in it. Eat foods that increase immunity in the body.
  •  Take a bath with hot water, the steam of hot water loosens the phlegm.
  •  It is most important that if you fall ill, pay attention to your hygiene, only then you will be able to recover soon, like washing hands and eating food. Also, dry them after washing.
  •  If you exercise daily, then do such exercises, so that your body does not feel tired.
  •  Give your body as much rest as possible.
  •  When the nose is closed, sleeping with a pillow under the head provides relief.
  •  In such a situation, taking steam proves to be very beneficial, because if you have difficulty in breathing due to cold, then steam also opens your nose, as well as the phlegm comes down.


don't be careless

  •  Complications can occur in young people, children and the elderly over the age of 65.
  •  Pregnant women are also at higher risk of flu.
  •  Influenza increases the risk of pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections and bronchitis.
  •  Antiviral drugs are suitable if there is a high-grade flu, otherwise the person may even die.

Warning

See a doctor if the flu has symptoms such as fever over 102 degrees, chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting. Apart from this, see a doctor if symptoms do not improve within 10 days or if they get worse.


necessary steps to protect

Get vaccinated before the season. Influenza vaccine is often given by a doctor. This doesn't guarantee you won't get the flu, but it does protect against other types of viruses.

Pay attention to cleanliness: Make it a habit to wash hands regularly, especially after coming back from a public place, the best way to avoid getting infected with influenza. Always carry antibacterial wipes with you, which are meant to be used in a place that doesn't have soap and a sink.

Focus on health: Good diet, supply of essential nutrients and vitamins of the body, physical exercise etc. are helpful in protecting against influenza. Even if it attacks, then the body is ready to deal with the disease.


Dr. D.K. Chauhan