You know the feeling. You wake up with the scratchy throat, and the acheyness radiating throughout your body, cold chills, a lack of energy, and just an overall feeling of yuck. It's the flu. Generally, the flu is a pretty nasty virus that can come on suddenly, and drag on for a couple of weeks. Not so luckily for me, I came down with the flu the day BEFORE Thanksgiving.
When my doctor told me that my flu test came back positive, he also informed me that I was highly contagious and that I would need to stay away from other people for at least 48 hours, including Thanksgiving Day.
So my family left me quarantined in my bedroom and I spent the holiday alone with my cat. I had not had the flu for over a decade and had forgotten what to expect. So I have compiled a list of the 5 things that will help get you through the flu this winter!
1. Bundle Up!
The worst part in the beginning of the flu, is the cold chills that accompany the fever. I was covered in at least 5 blankets and I was still shivering. So make sure you have plenty of blankets and warm clothing available to snuggle up in. And hot chocolate helps too!
2. Drink Drink Drink!
Staying hydrated is one of the most important parts of surviving the flu. When you are hydrated, it helps your body to flush out the bad stuff, as well as keeps the mucus thin that can cause a sinus infection later on. You may not realize that you need to drink, because all you can focus on is how crummy you feel, but try to drink constantly throughout the day. I promise, it makes a huge difference!
3. Rest!
Body aches and fever are going to make you absolutely miserable, so resting is really all you are going to want to do for the first couple of days. Try to take it easy and give your body time to heal itself. I know there will be times when your other responsibilities will come calling, and you will feel like you need to take care of them. But, try to take it easy. Dishes and laundry can wait a couple of days.
4. Tylenol and Mucinex
Both Tylenol and Mucinex are available at most grocery stores where there is a medical section. Tylenol is a life saver when it comes to keeping the aches and fever at bay, while Mucinex is really helpful the help thin down the mucous buildup that is causing your sinus pain and sore throat.
5. Think Positive!
You will think that the pain is never going to end, but just as suddenly as it came about, the aches will go away, and the fever will subside. The worst symptoms usually only stick around for three or four days, but the lack of energy can hang around for a couple of weeks. Just try to stay positive, and remember, this too shall pass!
