Treating the H1N1 Swine Flu Symptoms at Home

Most individuals do not need to seek medical treatment when contracting the H1N1 swine flu and are able to recover typically within seven days. However, it is essential when becoming ill with the H1N1 virus that you remain home other than to seek medical care and that you avoid unnecessary contact with other individuals for a minimum period of twenty four hours after your fever has gone away. While at home it is important to take the proper precautions to avoid spreading this virus to others in your home as well as reduce the length of time that it takes you to recover.

Avoiding the Spreading of H1N1

The first step that should be taken when treating the H1N1 virus at home is to create a “sick room” in your home if possible such as bedroom to be used only by the individual who is sick. This room can be also be shared by others who are sick and should have a trash can with a lid and disposable trash can liners. This room should be avoided by others in the home that are not sick with the exception of caregivers. Caregivers should take precautionary measures by keeping six feet away from the individual and avoid coming into contact with any items such as tissues that have been used to cover coughs or sneezing.

You should ensure to ventilate the room by leaving a window open for fresh air if possible or using a fan to keep the air circulating. It is essential to keep from dehydrating that you drink plenty of fluids, therefore, ensure that you have plenty of fluids available to you in your room such as pitcher of ice water or cooler with drinks as well as a drinking glass with a straw or a water bottle that is squeezable to make it easier for you to drink. If you do have to leave your home or come into contact with others, you should wear a face mask in order to avoid the spreading of germs.

Treating a Fever, Cough, and other Symptoms of H1N1

In order to reduce your fever with out the use of medications, use a wash cloth with cool water to wash down your arms and body or place it upon your forehead. Taking a warm bath can also help you to reduce a fever. When using over-the-counter medications to reduce fever, you should read the label to ensure that they contain “ibuprofen” or “acetaminophen” as these work best in reducing a fever. These medications should take affect within approximately thirty to forty five minutes; however, they may not bring your body temperature fully back to normal. It is essential that you monitor your fever closely as in some rare instances high fevers can produce seizures known as “febrile seizures” that can cause you to experience short jerking or spasms or pass out. If a seizure does occur, it is essential that you seek immediate medical attention.

In some cases having a cough can be beneficial in relieving congestion in the lungs by bringing up the mucus; however, a cough that is dry can cause your airways, throat, and chest to become sore. For this type of dry cough, you can purchase over-the-counter medications that are specifically formulated for dry coughing that will help in relieving these symptoms. If you are experiencing nausea or vomiting associated with the flu, ensure that you eat foods that are plain such as soda crackers, clear soup broths, or plain rice, as these will be easier on an upset stomach.