I. Introduction
Winter-spring is the time when influenza A cases increase, causing symptoms such as high fever, body aches, cough, runny nose, and prolonged fatigue. These symptoms not only make patients uncomfortable but also significantly impact their health and daily activities. However, most cases of influenza A can self-resolve within 5-7 days with proper care. This article will guide you on how to treat each symptom to recover faster.
II. Main Content
1. High Fever and Body Aches
High fever is one of the characteristic symptoms of influenza A, often appearing suddenly and reaching up to 39-40°C. Accompanied by fever are feelings of muscle pain, weakness, and prolonged fatigue. When the temperature exceeds 38.5°C, patients can take paracetamol at appropriate doses.
Apart from taking medication, patients should apply warm compresses to the forehead, armpits, and groin to help lower the temperature. During the fever period, they need adequate rest and avoid strenuous activities. Additionally, drinking plenty of fluids, especially oral rehydration solutions, helps replenish electrolytes and reduce dehydration caused by high fever.
2. Cough and Sore Throat
Coughing and sore throat are common symptoms in people infected with influenza A. Coughing can persist for several days, especially dry cough or productive cough with thin mucus. To soothe the throat, patients should gargle with saline solution 2-3 times a day to disinfect the area. Natural remedies like honey lozenges or ginger tea can effectively alleviate sore throats.
If coughing causes significant discomfort, herbal cough syrups may be used, but consult a doctor before using antibiotic or anti-inflammatory medications. If coughing persists for over a week, accompanied by thick mucus that is yellow or green, patients should seek medical attention as bacterial co-infection may require antibiotic treatment.
3. Runny Nose and Congestion
Congestion and difficulty breathing due to influenza A can cause severe discomfort. To improve this condition, patients should rinse their noses with saline solution daily to clear nasal passages and prevent mucus buildup. Additionally, inhaling steam with eucalyptus or lemongrass essential oils can help thin out mucus.
For severe congestion, decongestant nasal sprays can be used, but not for more than three days to avoid dependency. Note that influenza A is caused by a virus, so antibiotics are ineffective. Patients should not use antibiotics without a doctor’s prescription unless there are signs of bacterial co-infection.
4. Fatigue and Exhaustion
In addition to high fever, influenza A can leave patients feeling exhausted and weak for several days. This is not only due to the virus but also because of dehydration and weakened immunity. To help the body recover faster, patients should eat nutritious foods, prioritizing easily digestible items like porridge, soup, and soft rice. Drinking orange or lemon juice, rich in vitamin C, can boost the immune system.
Additionally, adequate rest is crucial for fighting off the virus. Avoid staying up late, limit stress, and refrain from alcohol and caffeine to prevent dehydration and prolong recovery.
5. Should You Use Tamiflu to Treat Influenza A?
Many people rush to buy Tamiflu when they catch influenza A, believing it is a specific treatment. However, Dr. Le Van Thieu emphasizes that not everyone needs Tamiflu. It is only prescribed for high-risk individuals such as children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with chronic conditions like diabetes or cardiovascular disease.
For typical cases, proper care can help the body recover within 5-7 days without antiviral drugs. Tamiflu is most effective if taken within 48 hours of symptom onset. However, it can cause side effects like nausea, diarrhea, and headaches, so it should not be used without a doctor’s prescription.
6. When to Go to the Hospital?
Most cases of influenza A can be treated at home, but patients should go to a healthcare facility immediately if they experience any of the following severe symptoms:
- Persistent high fever above 39°C that does not respond to fever reducers.
- Severe coughing, difficulty breathing, chest tightness, or blue lips.
- Extreme fatigue and severe dehydration (dry mouth, no urination for many hours).
- In children: irritability, refusal to feed, rapid breathing, pale skin.
“If any of these symptoms occur, patients should not delay seeking medical attention to receive timely diagnosis and treatment, avoiding dangerous complications,” Dr. Thieu advises.
III. Conclusion
Influenza A is common during winter-spring, but most cases can resolve naturally within 5-7 days with proper care. Treating each symptom scientifically and appropriately will help you recover faster. Remember, if you have any severe symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.
