The Best Flu Remedies

It’s already OCTOBER but instead of feeling cold-ish, it’s literally getting hot here. I hate it the most as my kids are prone to flu. And so, here are some of the best ways to avoid flu.

Hoping to avoid the influenza virus? Here's our guide to identifying the enemy, fighting back, and surviving this season's germ warfare.

• Know your enemy

Flu symptoms are often confused with the common cold, but knowing the difference early on is essential, says Mark Mengel, M.D., of the Saint Louis University School of Medicine. The flu hits suddenly and is marked by debilitating fatigue, high fever (102 degrees and up), and a headache. Many often experience chills, a dry cough, stuffy nose, and a sore throat.

• Get tested

Results are fast. A doctor will swab the back of your throat or nose, and you'll know in 5 to 10 minutes if it's the flu. Tests are available at doctors' offices, clinics, and emergency rooms. An early diagnosis will lessen the flu's impact, Dr. Mengel says.

• Work fast

Antiviral medicines within the first 48 hours can reduce the flu's severity and duration. Your doctor will know which brand is right for you — then get it fast. The longer you wait, the less effective an antiviral will be. Ask your doctor about keeping a prescription on hand in case the flu hits, or even whether you should take an antiviral as a preventive measure. This is especially true for those at high risk who missed the vaccination, or those in the middle of a local outbreak.

• Berry it

Elderberry extract has been proven to fight the flu. A recent Norwegian study found that patients who took elderberry recovered from the flu 4 days faster than those in the control group. Symptoms were also less severe, with no significant side effects. Elderberry products can be found at health stores and online; Sambucol, used in the study, is about $10 for a 4-ounce bottle. Elderberry is usually taken as a liquid (like cough syrup) or a lozenge. At the first symptoms, take 1 tablespoon of the syrup four times a day, or 1 lozenge four times a day. As a preventive, take 2 teaspoons daily or 1 lozenge twice a day.

Article from Yahoo! Health