If you’re one of the unlucky ones who gets the flu, it can be a real drag.
You’re feeling awful, you have no energy, and all you want to do is curl up in bed and sleep for the next week.
But if you have to work, you don’t really have that luxury. You need to find a way to get better quickly so you can go back to your job and earn a living.
Flu recovery doesn’t have to take forever, though.
With a little bit of care and attention, you can be back on your feet in no time. Here are ways to quickly recover from the flu and go back to work.
Drink Lots Of Fluids
This is the most important thing you can do when you are sick.
Drinking fluids helps to thin out mucus, prevents dehydration, and flushes toxins out of your system. Make sure to drink plenty of water, herbal teas, and clear soups.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine as they can dehydrate you.
The best fluids to drink when you are sick are warm or hot as they can help soothe your throat and break up congestion.
This is why soup is often called “nature’s penicillin.” It can help to break up the flu virus and make it easier for your body to fight off the infection.
Visit a Doctor
The first step in recovering from the flu is to visit a doctor. This will help you get a diagnosis and find out what type of flu you have.
There are different types of flu, and each one requires different treatment. If you don’t know what type of flu you have, it will be difficult to treat it effectively.
The doctor will also be able to prescribe medication that can help you recover from the flu more quickly.
More so, because many workplaces require a doctor certificate before allowing an employee to return to work, getting a diagnosis and certificate from a doctor is essential.
This will help you avoid any potential problems with your employer and getting fired.
Although, some employers are more understanding than others and may not require a certificate.
However, it is always best to err on the side of caution.
Try a Spoonful of Honey
Honey has been used as a cough suppressant for centuries, and there’s actually some science to back up its effectiveness.
A study published in the Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine found that honey was more effective at relieving cough and improving sleep than over-the-counter cough medicines like dextromethorphan (DM) in kids ages 2 to 18.
Another study found that honey was just as effective as the cough suppressant guaifenesin in relieving cough symptoms.
This is likely due to honey’s anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
Gargle with saltwater
Gargling with salt water can help reduce the swelling in your throat and break down the mucus.
The salt will also help to kill the bacteria that are causing the infection. It is important to use warm water, as hot water can further irritate your throat.
This remedy can be done several times a day to help provide relief. Though, be careful not to overdo it, as too much salt can actually make your throat feel worse.
However, a little salt can go a long way in helping to speed up your recovery.
Sleep As Much As Possible
When you’re sick, your body is working hard to fight the infection. Give it a rest by sleeping as much as possible.
It may be tempting to push through, but getting plenty of rest is essential for a speedy recovery.
It’s also important to drink plenty of fluids and eat healthy foods to give your body the fuel it needs to fight the infection.
The flu can be a serious illness, so if you’re feeling really awful, it’s best to see a doctor.
This is especially important if you have a chronic illness or are pregnant.
Try Elderberry
Research suggests that elderberries may help fight the flu.
A study published in the journal BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that people who took an elderberry supplement for five days saw a significant reduction in their symptoms.
The study participants also reported that their symptoms cleared up more quickly than those who didn’t take elderberries. Elderberry supplements are available in most health food stores.
You can also find the dried berries online. If you’re taking elderberry supplements, be sure to follow the package directions.
The flu can be a serious illness that can sideline you for days or even weeks.
However, there are things you can do to help you recover more quickly and get back to work.
Rest, drink plenty of fluids, and take over-the-counter medications can all help ease your symptoms and help you feel better faster.
Be sure to see your doctor if your symptoms are severe or if you have any other underlying health conditions.
With a little care and rest, you’ll be back to work in no time.