| The Kenton Bridge Medical Centre: Flu | |
| Flu: If you have a
temperature, runny nose, cough, and are aching a lot, paracetamol or aspirin, fluids
and rest may help. Flu usually takes 7-10 days to get better. Sometimes this develops
into a second infection where the fever persists and you may be coughing rotten
tasting phleghm. This may be improved by medication and if you are not improving, you
should make an appointment to be seen by the doctor. The treatment of flu is aimed mainly at the symptoms of fever, pain and discomfort. Spicy foods (ginger and garlic) sometimes help. Warm drinks (tea or blackcurrant juice eg) with a bit of ginger, honey and lemon (or brandy if you like) often help. Flu vaccination is available free of charge to practice patients from the first week of October each year. This is advisable for anyone over the age of 65 years; anyone with chest problems such as asthma or COPD; anyone with heart problems, Diabetes, or any condition that reduces immunity (ie your ability to fight infections).
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