Treating the flu: making lifestyle changes

It seems we've known about the flu forever, since Hippocrates first described this illness in 412 BC. But only recently has science finally started to unlock the mysteries of influenza and develop medications that can get us back on our feet faster.

When the flu hits, doing some or all of the following will ease your symptoms and help you feel better.

• Get bed rest, preferably in a warm room with good ventilation. Rest is essential to enable your body to recover.
• Use a humidifier in your bedroom to help ease congestion. Change the water and filter regularly to prevent mold growth.
• Take steamy showers, and let the warm water stream down your face. Or boil a pot of water and inhale the steam. Just let the water cool a bit so it’s not too hot to breathe in.
• Get enough fluids — at least eight 250-millilitre (eight-ounce) glasses a day — to help thin out mucus. Have some chicken soup. It can help provide needed nutrients, and the steam aids in clearing congestion.
• Soothe your sore throat. Try gargling with salt water several times a day. And for temporary relief, suck on hard candy or throat lozenges.
• Wash your hands frequently to keep from spreading the flu and its misery around. This is especially important after sneezing, blowing your nose or touching your face.

• The scientific verdict isn't in yet on zinc gluconate lozenges, but there is some evidence that they can relieve symptoms and help cut the duration of the flu.
• Suck on one lozenge every four hours. You'll know that it’s working for your particular virus if, after your fourth tablet, your sore throat feels better.
• The herb echinacea has long been considered an immune-booster, and many believe it can help shorten the duration of the flu.
• If you use an echinacea product (best taken as a liquid extract or standardized extract in pill form), start taking it at the first sign of the flu and discontinue using it once you feel better.