How to get rid of the flu as quickly as possible?

Verified on 03/30/2024 by Alexane Flament, Editor

Influenza is an infection linked to a virus. Antibiotics are therefore ineffective in treating this disease. In most cases, symptoms disappear spontaneously within 1 to 2 weeks.

However, it is possible to speed up healing with certain medications and tips that are easy to reproduce at home. We’ll explain it to you.

Antiviral treatments to limit infection

Antiviral treatments are medications that prevent the virus from multiplying in the body. They can limit infection, provided they are taken as soon as symptoms appear.

In France, the antiviral treatment for the flu is Tamiflu. It is reserved for severe forms of influenza and patients at risk of complications. For others, there are tips to suffer less from infection and get back in shape more quickly after a flu.

Take painkillers and decongestants

Some medications can relieve flu symptoms. To reduce fever and ease muscle pain, you can take paracetamol.

If you have a blocked nose, you can use a decongestant nasal spray. Favor herbal sprays. Also, wash your nose regularly with salt water to thin the mucus and eliminate the microbes present inside.

Get as much rest as possible

If you have the flu, stay home and get as much rest as possible. Sleep helps the immune system fight infection.

The more you rest, the more likely you are to recover quickly.

On the other hand, if you do not slow down and continue your daily activities, you are more likely to suffer from complications and transmit the virus to others.

Stay hydrated

Hydration is essential to recover faster from the flu. Drinking plenty of water helps prevent dehydration, caused by fever, a common symptom of the flu.

By providing your body with liquids (water, herbal teas, teas, fresh fruit juice), you compensate for the loss of water linked to sweating caused by fever.

Eat healthy

Although it’s tempting to eat fatty meals and sweets when you’re stuck in bed all day, your body actually needs the right nutrients to better fight the virus.

For your meals, favor fruits and vegetables because they are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, nutrients which boost the immune system.

Also eat foods rich in protein to restore strength to your muscles weakened by illness.