It’s official: we’re entering the cold and flu season, and it’s crucial to maintain a strong immune system!
As the late lazy summer days transition into crisp autumn nights, we find ourselves on the cusp of flu season. Additionally, we’re facing what is being referred to as a “tripledemic,” and if you’re not feeling your best, what steps should you take?
COVID-19, RSV, and the flu are all anticipated to see an uptick during the winter months, making it more complex to discern which respiratory virus might be affecting you. While recent headlines have primarily concentrated on COVID-19, it’s important to remember that the flu remains the most prevalent infectious disease. Notably, the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Health has reported a significant increase in influenza cases during the 2022 flu season compared to previous years.
Common symptoms you may experience are:
- Fever/chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Vomiting/diarrhea
And if you’re wondering how to tell the difference between the flu and COVID-19 — which have similar symptoms — the only way to confirm is to get tested.
What are the different strains of the flu?
There are three types of flu viruses that affect people, namely influenza viruses A, B, and C. Influenza A and influenza B viruses are the primary culprits, responsible for causing the most severe illnesses and widespread outbreaks, while influenza C viruses typically lead to milder symptoms in individuals.
If you test positive for the flu or if your healthcare provider suspects you have the flu, what steps can you take to expedite your recovery?
Tips to manage the flu
Prioritize Rest
Resting is essential for your body’s recovery. It’s advisable to skip strenuous activities, stay home from work, and reschedule social engagements. During sleep, your body releases cytokines, proteins that aid in fighting infections, so allowing yourself to rest enables your body to focus more energy on healing and combating the flu.
Stay Hydrated
Flu symptoms such as fever, vomiting, and diarrhea can lead to dehydration. To stay properly hydrated, consume fluids like water, broth, tea, and electrolyte drinks. It’s best to avoid sugary fruit juices and caffeinated beverages while you’re unwell. Consider using a humidifier to reduce viral transmission, alleviate coughs, and ease nasal congestion. Staying hydrated also helps maintain moisture in your nasal passages, eyes, and mouth, which can prevent bacteria from entering your body.
Utilize Heat Therapy
To alleviate muscle or body aches, consider using a heat pack or hot water bottles. If you do not have a fever, a steamy shower or a hot bath can help relax tight muscles and ease muscle aches.
Opt for Over-the-Counter Medications
Acetaminophen and NSAIDs are effective in reducing fever and can also provide relief from headaches or body aches. If you are dealing with a runny or stuffy nose, you can try a nasal spray or an oral decongestant such as phenylephrine or pseudoephedrine. However, it’s important to note that individuals with hypertension or cardiac arrhythmia should exercise caution with pseudoephedrine, as it can lead to adverse side effects and potential drug interactions.
For troublesome coughs, especially those interfering with sleep, consider a cough suppressant like dextromethorphan. If your cough significantly disrupts your sleep, it may be worthwhile to contact your healthcare provider, even through virtual means, to explore more effective relief options. If you’re dealing with excessive mucus, an expectorant like guaifenesin can help clear mucus from your lungs.
Practice good hand-washing hygiene.
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. If you aren’t able to use soap and water, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Avoid being around other people when you don’t feel well, especially when you have a fever.
Avoid being around people who are sick whenever possible.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
Eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly and get enough sleep.
Prevention is the key
It’s easier to avoid getting flu than treating it. Remember, the flu virus mutates. Fast. So, getting a flu shot every year is the absolute best method to protect yourself from the latest strains that are likely to make their rounds this season. The flu vaccines are already out in KSA and you can get yours by visiting any nearby hospitals or clinics.
When to see a doctor
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), seasonal influenza is responsible for 650,000 deaths yearly because of respiratory diseases. If you experience any of the following symptoms, its recommended to visit the emergency room:
- A fever over 103 degrees Fahrenheit (39.44 degrees Celsius)
- Difficulty in breathing
- Not peeing or peeing very little
- Chest or stomach pain or pressure
- Persistent dizziness
- Confusion
- Severe muscle pain or weakness
- Seizures
- -Bluish skin, lips and nails
While managing the flu at home is often possible, it’s crucial to monitor your symptoms and minimize contact with others. Although complete prevention of every case of influenza is unlikely, everyone should contribute to safeguarding themselves and those in their community by getting the flu shot, practicing diligent hand hygiene, and staying home when unwell. Your actions could make a significant difference and potentially save lives. If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional.
Wishing you and your family a healthy and joyful winter season.
Dr. Salma Siddiqua earned her MBBS from Batterjee Medical College for Sciences and Technology in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. She is currently working as a pediatrician in the Ministry of Health Hospitals in Riyadh. She has particular interests in Research and Pediatric Cardiology. She is also a mental health advocate.
