When the flu strikes, it can leave you feeling drained, achy, and miserable. At The Local Pharmacy in Leicester, we understand the urgency of wanting to feel better fast. While it’s challenging to fully recover from the flu in just 24 hours, there are effective steps you can take to reduce your symptoms, feel better quickly, and prevent the virus from lingering. Here’s our step-by-step guide on how to get rid of the flu in 24 hours and start feeling like yourself again.
Step 1: Rest and Hydration
The most crucial step in fighting the flu is giving your body the time and resources it needs to recover. Rest is essential for boosting your immune system’s ability to combat the virus. The flu can take a significant toll on your body. As such, lying down and taking it easy is the first thing you should do.
Alongside rest, hydration is key. Drinking plenty of fluids helps thin mucus, making it easier to clear congestion. It also prevents dehydration, which can worsen flu symptoms like headaches and fatigue. Water, herbal teas, and clear soups are all excellent choices. Avoid drinks that can dehydrate you, such as alcohol or caffeinated beverages.
Step 2: Use Over-the-Counter Remedies
The Local Pharmacy offers a range of over-the-counter medications that can help alleviate the symptoms of the flu, allowing you to feel better in a shorter period.
Pain Relief
To tackle common flu symptoms like headaches, body aches, and fever, consider using pain relief options such as paracetamol or ibuprofen. Both medications are effective at reducing fever and easing discomfort. Remember to follow the recommended dosage and consult with your pharmacist if you have any underlying health conditions that may affect which medication is best for you.
Decongestants and Cough Remedies
If you’re struggling with a blocked nose or cough, decongestants can help reduce nasal swelling and make breathing easier. For a persistent or dry cough, cough syrups or lozenges are also available. These treatments soothe the throat and reduce irritation, helping you to rest more comfortably.
Your pharmacist can help you choose the best remedies based on your symptoms and any other medications you might be taking.
Step 3: Boost Your Immune System with Nutrients
While your immune system is fighting off the flu, giving it some extra support through your diet can make a big difference. Nutrient-rich foods, particularly those high in vitamin C and zinc, are known for their immune-boosting properties.
Citrus fruits, red peppers, and leafy greens are excellent sources of vitamin C. Alternatively, zinc can be found in foods like nuts, seeds, and lean meats. If you’re not feeling up to eating, consider a vitamin C or zinc supplement, available at The Local Pharmacy.
In addition, warm, nutritious foods such as chicken soup can provide comfort, help reduce congestion, and keep you hydrated. All of this will contribute to speeding up your recovery.
Step 4: Inhale Steam to Clear Nasal Congestion
One of the most uncomfortable symptoms of the flu is nasal congestion. Inhaling steam is a simple and effective way to clear your airways and ease breathing. To create an at-home steam bath, simply fill a bowl with hot water, drape a towel over your head to trap the steam, and inhale deeply for several minutes, allowing the warm vapours to clear your airways. Adding a few drops of eucalyptus oil or menthol to the water can enhance the effect, helping to relieve congestion more quickly.
If steam inhalation isn’t for you, we offer menthol-based rubs and inhalers that work similarly to unblock your nose and clear your airways.
Step 5: Gargle with Salt Water for a Sore Throat
A sore throat is another common symptom of the flu, but relief can be found with a simple saltwater gargle. Mix about half a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water and gargle it for about 30 seconds before spitting it out. This can help reduce swelling and discomfort, and may even loosen mucus.
If the sore throat persists, we stock throat lozenges and sprays that provide longer-lasting relief.
Step 6: Get Plenty of Sleep
Sleep is one of the most powerful tools in your recovery arsenal. Getting a good night’s sleep allows your immune system to work at full capacity, helping your body fight off the flu virus. Make your sleeping environment comfortable and conducive to rest by ensuring it is cool, dark, and quiet. If nasal congestion is keeping you awake, try propping your head up with an extra pillow to help your airways stay open.
Resting during the day will also support your recovery.
Step 7: When to See a Doctor
While most cases of the flu can be managed at home with these steps, certain symptoms may indicate that it’s time to seek medical help. If you experience difficulty breathing, chest pain, a high fever that won’t come down, or symptoms that suddenly worsen after an initial improvement, contact a healthcare professional as soon as possible.
The Importance of Vaccination
Although these steps can help you manage the flu and recover more quickly, the best way to protect yourself from the flu in the first place is to get vaccinated. The annual flu vaccine is updated each year to protect against the most common strains of the virus.
The flu jab significantly reduces your risk of catching the flu. If you do become ill, it can also reduce the severity of your symptoms. Vaccination is particularly important for vulnerable groups such as older adults, pregnant women, and those with underlying health conditions. By getting vaccinated, you not only protect yourself but also help protect those around you from the spread of the virus.
A Quick Recovery
While it’s hard to completely recover from the flu in just 24 hours, following these steps can help you feel better quickly and minimise the duration of your illness. By staying hydrated, using the right over-the-counter remedies, and supporting your immune system, you can get back on your feet sooner. Contact us to find out about how we can support you through the flu.
Remember, the best defence against the flu is prevention, so make sure to book your flu vaccination at The Local Pharmacy today!
This blog was written on behalf of The Local Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.