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Flu Treatment for Fever, Mucus & Headaches

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) advises flu sufferers to stay home except for medical treatment. Flu treatment involves a few simple steps beginning when the first symptoms of fatigue, runny nose and sore throat are experienced.

  1. Sleep

    • Sleep is a key to recovery from the flu. Place pillows so that the head is elevated to avoid mucus draining down the throat.

    Fever

    • Chills and fever may accompany influenza, but the NIAID says that a fever is not always present with the flu. Fevers may be reduced by taking aspirin, acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

    Mucus

    • Drinking clear fluids, soups and broths, and water help in reducing mucus. Fluids also keep the throat moist so that mucus drainage will not cause coughing. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends removing mucus with a suction bulb and using a room humidifier.

    Headaches

    • Take acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce headache pain. Aspirin may contribute to Reye's syndrome in children, teens and adults. A doctor should be consulted if there is extreme head or face pain, according to the CDC.

    Antivirals

    • Prescription antiviral drugs may be given for flu treatment. During widespread flu outbreaks involving high numbers of the extreme young and elderly, doctors may limit antivirals to guarantee their availability to these high-risk groups.

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