Flu is the most dangerous viral infection. Symptoms of influenza and ARVI. diagnosis and separation by severity Viral complications of influenza

Influenza is a viral disease familiar to everyone, which is characterized by severe intoxication of the body with damage to the upper respiratory tract and an acute onset. The disease is transmitted by airborne droplets. The outbreak of the disease occurs during the cold season. The disease is easily transmitted from person to person and is highly contagious. It affects men and women of all ages equally. The flu is most dangerous for children, the elderly, pregnant women and people suffering from severe chronic diseases. If you do not start treatment in a timely manner and ignore the symptoms of the disease, the flu can easily lead to severe complications that can cause death. Only with proper treatment can you expect that the disease will go away in the shortest possible time and without dangerous consequences. For the treatment of influenza, it is useful, in addition to the main treatment with medications, to use folk remedies, but they cannot fight the disease only with them.

How does the influenza virus affect the body?

In order for the disease to begin to develop, the influenza virus must enter the body of a person whose immune system is weakened. Infection most often occurs through the mucous membranes of the nose, although infection is also possible through the mucous membranes of the eyes. The mechanism of development of influenza is as follows:

• entry of the virus into the mucous membrane;
• penetration of the virus into mucosal cells and active reproduction;
• penetration into the blood along with toxins after the destruction of the affected cell;
• penetration of the influenza virus into various systems and organs. This process is fast, and therefore the disease begins with rapid and severe intoxication of the body.

As a rule, from the moment of infection to the appearance of the first symptoms of the disease, it takes from several hours to 2 days.

Flu forms and symptoms

Flu, depending on the state of the immune system, can occur in mild, moderate and severe forms. Their symptoms appear more or less clearly and differ somewhat.

Mild form of influenza

Seeking medical help in this case is not necessary if there is no need to receive sick leave. However, despite this, even a mild form of the flu should not be tolerated on your feet, since neglecting the home regime can lead to serious complications. The main symptoms of this flu are:

• a sharp increase in body temperature to 38 degrees (the temperature is easily reduced with medications);
• maintaining elevated temperature for 2-3 days;
• slight runny nose;
• slight dry cough;
• slight deterioration in the general condition of the patient.

Quite often, a mild form of influenza is confused with ARVI. Recovery from this form usually occurs after 7 days, but in order for immunity to be fully restored after the illness, you should stay at home for at least 10 days.

Moderate form of influenza severity

With this form of the disease, the patient’s condition worsens significantly and medical monitoring of the progress of treatment is required. This is necessary because with insufficient quality therapy, the risk of complications is very high. Moderate flu symptoms include:

• a sharp increase in body temperature up to 39 degrees (decreases when taking medications);
• maintaining an elevated temperature for 4-5 days;
• noticeable headache;
• lethargy;
• severe weakness;
• muscle aches;
• significant dry cough;
• sore throat;
• a sore throat;
• severe nasal congestion;
• scratching pain behind the sternum;
• lacrimation;
• photophobia.

Recovery usually occurs within 10 days, but full recovery requires 14 days.

Severe form of influenza

In this form, the patient’s condition becomes serious and seeking medical help should be done immediately. In some cases, such manifestations of influenza require hospitalization of the patient. Severe symptoms include:

• a rapid increase in body temperature to 40 degrees and above (the temperature is difficult to bring down using traditional antipyretics);
• particularly severe weakness;
• Strong headache;
• severe body aches;
• sleep disorders;
• severe dizziness;
• fainting (does not always happen);
• seizures (rare);
• hallucinations (rare);
• delirium (occurs rarely);
• symptoms of brain inflammation (rare);
• nausea;
• painful dry cough;
• severe sore throat;
• complete nasal congestion;
• strong flow from the nose.

Treatment is carried out under strict medical supervision at home or, if necessary, in a hospital. A person needs at least 14 days to recover, and full recovery can take up to 1 month.

Complications of influenza

In cases where therapy is absent or carried out incorrectly, or the patient refuses to take a number of medications and neglects bed rest, there is a high risk of complications. The most common complications of influenza include:

• pulmonary edema;
• cerebral edema;
• swelling of the throat;
• meningitis;
• myocarditis;
• pneumonia;
• sinusitis;
• frontal sinusitis;
• otitis;
• tracheitis.

In addition, serious exacerbations of existing chronic diseases are also possible as consequences of the flu. For pregnant women, the flu is dangerous because it leads to fetal deformities or miscarriage.

Traditional medicines to fight influenza

Traditional medicines can only be used as additional therapy, and under no circumstances can they replace traditional treatment.

In order to improve the patient's condition and lower the temperature, you can take advantage of the medicinal properties of raspberries. Taking 1 tablespoon of dried berries, pour 240 milliliters of boiling water over them and leave covered for 20 minutes. After this, the medicine is drunk in full. In order to prevent a rise in temperature, you should drink this drink in the morning and evening during the first 5 days of illness.

At the first signs of the flu, treatment with garlic will also be effective. To carry it out, take a few cloves of garlic, chop them and squeeze out the juice. Next, a cotton swab is moistened in the resulting juice and placed in the nose. Leave this cotton wool for 15 minutes. It is quite difficult to use such therapy for children due to the severe burning sensation in the nose after inserting a garlic tampon.

Onions will also help in treatment. In order to fight the flu, you should take 1 large onion, chop it very finely and put it on a plate. Next, the patient should inhale the onion smell, holding the plate at a distance of 30 centimeters from the nose. This inhalation lasts 10 minutes. At least 4 procedures are performed per day. Therapy continues for at least 4 days.

Cranberry juice will also be useful for the flu, as it will speed up the cleansing of toxins from the body. To prepare the drink, take 1 glass of berries and fill it with one and a half liters of water and bring to a boil. After this, the berries must be crushed and the composition boiled for 5 minutes. After cooling the fruit drink, you can strain it if desired. Drink this drink throughout the day. The fruit drink is prepared anew every day. They drink it throughout the entire period of illness. If desired, you can add honey to the drink to taste.

Eucalyptus infusion is also suitable for treating flu. To prepare it, you need to take 20 grams of dried leaves of the plant and pour 1 glass of medical alcohol, then tightly close the lid and put it in the dark to infuse for 7 days. After this period, the composition is filtered and used internally. You should drink the medicine 25 drops diluted in 60 milliliters of boiled water 2 times a day.

A useful remedy for eliminating fever is the following drink: taking 100 grams of dried cherries, pouring 500 milliliters of boiling water over them and, putting on fire, simmer under the lid for 30 minutes. After this, after cooling and straining the medicine, take it 1 glass 4 times a day. If desired, you can add sugar or honey to the composition.

You can prepare an effective medicine against the flu from pistachios. To obtain the composition, take 3 tablespoons of crushed nut kernels and pour one and a half glasses of boiling water. After this, the composition is left to infuse for 30 minutes. At this time, it should be shaken once every 10 minutes. After the specified time, the drug is filtered and taken before meals, 3 large (tablespoons) spoons 3 times a day. The drug is used until the patient recovers completely.

Garlic is also an effective remedy for the flu. In order to speed up recovery, you should eat 1 large clove of garlic before eating, chewing it well. This needs to be repeated 5 times a day. This therapy is carried out for 7 days.

Flu prevention

Even though preventive measures do not protect against influenza 100%, they can still significantly reduce the risk of infection. In order to protect yourself as much as possible from the disease, you should take the following precautionary actions:

• carry out systematic hardening of the body throughout the year;
• take vitamin courses in spring and autumn;
• use medications to maintain immunity during a seasonal outbreak of viral diseases;
• observe the rules of personal hygiene;
• avoid hypothermia;
• promptly treat inflammatory processes in the body.

These measures allow you to keep your immune system as active as possible, which helps get rid of the influenza virus, preventing its development, as soon as it enters the body. In addition, to prevent influenza, there is a vaccination, which has proven itself to be the best means of prevention.

According to statistics, many adults, in case of colds, flu and other acute respiratory viral infections, simply do not know the fundamental rules for their treatment. Doctors' advice will help you quickly cure these diseases in children and adults.

In order for treatment to have an effect, it is necessary to correctly diagnose the disease. Therefore, people are often interested in how to distinguish influenza from ARVI. This is due to the similar symptoms of these diseases.

The flu always starts instantly. In most cases, a person indicates the exact time when he felt worse. And with ARVI, the deterioration occurs slowly and lasts for 1-2 days.

The onset of influenza is characterized by pain in the head, forehead, and eyes. Body aches appear. The temperature reaches 39-40C. ARVI begins with nasal congestion, the throat is sore and painful to swallow, it does not ache in the body. With ARVI, the temperature does not exceed 38.5C.

The main difference in the initial period is redness of the eyes and lacrimation. This is the symptom that indicates the flu. And sneezing is characteristic of ARVI.

Distinguish influenza from ARVI by the nature of the cough. With ARVI, the patient begins to cough from the very beginning of the disease. However, it is dry and choppy. Cough with influenza occurs only on the 2nd or 3rd day. With a cough, sore throat and runny nose appear. Cough exhausts the patient and causes pain in the sternum.

With the flu, a person feels worse compared to ARVI, even to the point of loss of ability to work. Improper treatment of influenza can lead to serious complications, even death.

ARVI does not entail complications and goes away in 7-10 days. The body is not weakened after the disease. Flu is different in this regard, since during the recovery period a person may feel dizzy, lack appetite, and be irritable.

How to properly treat influenza in adults: methods, treatment regimen

There are several ways to treat influenza:

• Medication;
• Homeopathic;
• Traditional methods.

Treatment regimen:

• Making a diagnosis, clarifying the severity of the disease, this will indicate how to treat influenza in an adult;
• The main treatment prescribed by the doctor;
• Antiviral treatment

Treatment of influenza at the first sign, without fever

The first signs of influenza are:

• Frequent sneezing.
• Nasal congestion without mucus discharge.
• Dry cough.
• Sore throat.

If signs of the flu appear, you should:

• Maintain bed rest;
• Drink plenty of liquids;
• Avoid junk food;
• Quit smoking, alcohol;
• Consult your doctor.

Treatment of influenza with fever, cough and complications, signs in an adult

If you get the flu, you need to be careful about your treatment. Since the flu is fraught with various complications. Therefore, if signs such as cough or temperature appear, you should contact a therapist who will prescribe the necessary treatment.

The cough exhausts the patient and causes chest pain. A dry cough is more troublesome at night. It does not stop for a long time and does not give rest to a person. With proper treatment, it progresses to the next stage. At this stage, coughing produces phlegm. To treat cough, tablets and syrups are prescribed.

A high temperature is a sign of the functioning of the immune system. But at a temperature, convulsions, vomiting may appear, and individual intolerance is also possible. In these cases, taking antipyretics is recommended even with a slight increase in temperature.

You should not ask your friends how to treat the flu in adults and self-medicate. In case of any complications, you should contact a specialist. The course of treatment must be prescribed by a doctor.

You should urgently seek the help of a specialist if the following signs appear:

• Convulsions;
• Hallucinations, disturbance of the patient’s consciousness;
• Temperature above 40C;
• Shortness of breath, difficulty breathing;
• Pain in the back of the head that is not relieved by medications;
• Skin rash.

Drug treatment of influenza

Drug treatment of influenza should be carried out in a complex manner. It includes:

• Causal therapy destroys the influenza virus.
• Pathogenetic therapy stops the progression of the disease.
• Symptomatic therapy.

How to treat, inexpensive but effective medications, names of tablets, list

Effective medications for flu and colds are divided into three groups:

• Antiviral: Tamiflu, Oseltamivir, Amiksin and Ribavirin.
• Immunomodulators: Cycloferon, Kagocel and Anaferon.
• Medicines that eliminate the symptoms of the disease: ColdactFlu Plus, Coldrex, Rinza and Fervex.

What antibiotics should adults take for the flu?

The viral disease lasts for 3-5 days. If the patient's condition does not improve, doctors prescribe antibiotics.

Ceftriaxone

Ceftriaxone is considered one of the most powerful antibiotics. It should not be used at the onset of the disease, since this is an antibacterial medicine, not an antiviral one. The reason for the prescription can only be a very dangerous complication.

Doctors prescribe Ceftriaxin for the following complications after influenza:

• pneumonia;
• lung abscess;
• purulent sore throat;
• sepsis;
• bacterial diseases of the genitourinary system;
• meningitis.

Cefazolin

Cefazolin is the most effective and powerful antibiotic. Experts prescribe it when other antibiotics have not had a therapeutic effect. It has a small range of side effects and they occur in rare cases.

Most often, patients complain of severe pain when injecting Cefazolin and hardening of the injection site. However, it is worth being patient for a speedy recovery.

Azithromycin

Azithrimycin belongs to the group of broad-spectrum drugs. It is characterized by an antibacterial therapeutic effect. Azithromycin suppresses pathogenic bacteria and quickly improves the patient's condition. This drug has a cumulative property.

With each subsequent dose, Azithromycin enhances its effect and retains its therapeutic effect for several days after the last dose. This medicine is effective for flu with complications. The big advantage is that it is well tolerated and rarely has side effects.

He is appointed:

• at a high temperature that lasts for more than one day;
• with enlargement of the cervical lymph nodes;
• photophobia and lacrimation;
• with purulent otitis.

Flemoxin

Flemoxin is prescribed in the following cases:

• High fever that lasts for 3 days;
• Vomiting, weakness and headaches appeared;
• Weakened body;
• According to test results.

The medication is taken according to a doctor's prescription. The specialist calculates the individual dosage.

Broad-spectrum antiviral drugs for influenza and ARVI

How to treat influenza in adults is of interest to people in the autumn-winter season. At this time, the most common diseases are colds, flu and acute respiratory viral infections. At the first signs, it is necessary to take antiviral drugs.

Cycloferon

Cycloferon is a drug with a strong immunomodulatory and antiviral effect.

Cycloferon is used at the onset of a cold. The medicine prevents the proliferation of viruses and leads to a speedy recovery. For severe influenza, an adult takes 6 tablets in the first days of illness.

Every other day, three tablets again. It is prescribed to children from the age of four. There are contraindications for patients with diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Before use, you should consult your doctor.

Lavomax

One of the most popular immunomodulatory drugs in the treatment of influenza and ARVI is Lavomax.

It is prescribed to people who suffer from ARVI more than 5 times a year or pneumonia more than 3 times. For prevention, experts prescribe Lavomax in November or December. To alleviate the form of the disease, the doctor prescribes it in the first hours or days of the disease.

Arbidol

Arbidol is an antiviral drug that is prescribed for the prevention and treatment of influenza and other colds.

The drug is available in different forms. It is also prescribed to adult children over 2 years of age. An allergic reaction when taking Arbidol occurs very rarely.

Kagocel

Kagocel is a drug with a pronounced antimicrobial and antiviral effect. Kagocel is easily tolerated by patients and causes almost no adverse reactions. It is used both for the prevention of colds and for their treatment.

The immunomodulatory effect of this drug lasts for another 2-3 days after the last dose. Contraindication for use is individual intolerance to the drug. It is prescribed starting from the age of three.

Recent indications have proven that Kogacel reduces the risk of complications and accelerates and facilitates the recovery process from influenza and acute respiratory diseases.

The dosage and regimen are prescribed individually for each patient by the attending physician.

Antipyretic drugs for fever

A serious reason for using antipyretics is a temperature of 38.5°C. There are several forms of release of antipyretic drugs.

The most familiar to everyone is the tablet. They relieve fever for a long period of time.

Children are most often prescribed syrups. They have a pleasant taste, smell and color. Measure syrups using a measuring spoon. Syrups are quickly absorbed and enter the bloodstream, this helps provide a rapid therapeutic effect.

Candles are a safe and effective remedy. Convenient when prescribed to children under one year of age. In the presence of vomiting, suppositories are irreplaceable. Suppositories bypass the gastrointestinal tract without harming it. Their action is long-lasting and effective.

At high temperatures, the number one antipyretic drug is Paracetamol.

In addition, it is also an analgesic. In addition to the antipyretic effect, it relieves pain. Paracetamol is available:

• in capsules;
• tablets;
• suppositories;
• syrups for children;
• powder for making a drink.

The dose of the medicine directly depends on the weight and number of years of the patient. During the day you can take no more than 3-4 g. One dose should not exceed 1 g of paracetamol. The temperature begins to subside after 30-45 minutes.

The most effective and fastest way to combat fever is to take rectal suppositories. The use of alcohol during treatment is prohibited.

The drugs Panadol and Efferalgan have been developed based on paracetamol. Efferalgan is an effervescent tablet. They dissolve in warm water and quickly affect the temperature.

Various powders, which are diluted in warm water for use, are very popular. These are Vicks, Coldrex, Theraflu. The composition includes paracetamol, vitamin C and various flavoring additives. After consuming warm preparations, the symptoms of the disease are relieved within 20 minutes.

Products containing nimesulide block pain and lower temperature. It is better to take it for severe headache or muscle pain. During the day, you can use this drug in a dose not exceeding 200 mg. Nimesul and Affida Fort are prepared in powder form to make a drink.

Aspirin comes next after paracetamol. For adults, 1 g of aspirin is allowed per day. Acetylsalicylic acid has a quick effect on symptoms and a large list of contraindications.

Ibuprofen is a well-known remedy for fighting fever. In addition to the antipyretic effect, drugs with ibuprofen have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

Principles of treating colds and acute respiratory viral infections at home: WHO clinical recommendations

First of all, the patient should see a doctor who will conduct an examination and make a diagnosis. If the disease is mild, the patient is treated at home.

Then the patient must be provided with a calm environment, the diet must be followed, the diet must contain vegetables and fruits, and indigestible foods must be removed from the patient’s menu.

To prevent dehydration, the patient must constantly drink warm drinks.

The temperature is brought down when it exceeds 38-38.5C, using medications prescribed by the doctor.

When coughing, medicines and expectorants are prescribed, as well as inhalations based on herbal decoctions.

Take multivitamins. The patient must remain in bed. Taking immunomodulatory drugs will help you avoid complications with the flu.

Experts prescribe antiviral drugs in cases of severe disease.

Methods of treating ARVI with folk remedies, without drugs (tablets): the best remedy

As a rule, flu in adults can be treated using traditional methods.. With the huge availability of medicines, traditional methods are not inferior to their positions in the treatment of colds and acute respiratory viral infections. At the onset of the disease or in the absence of complications, treatment with traditional methods is as effective as medications for treatment.

Rosehip is one of the effective remedies in the fight against influenza, ARVI and colds. Dried berries need to be mashed. 5 tablespoons of the pulp obtained from the berries are poured into 1000 ml of cold water. The resulting mixture is placed on low heat and boiled, stirring for 8-10 minutes.

Then the warm solution is placed in a warm place and wrapped. It must infuse for 10 hours. For taste, you can add honey, jam or syrup. When using honey, you must be careful, as it is an allergenic substance. The decoction should be taken for 7 days, after each dose, rinse your mouth with clean, cold, boiled water.

Garlic is a favorite folk remedy for the treatment of colds. There are many methods and recipes of traditional medicine using garlic. The most effective is a combination of honey and garlic.

Garlic must be crushed through a garlic press or press. Mix it in equal proportions with honey. The product is ready. Take it 1 tablespoon 3-4 times a day. Be sure to drink plenty of water.

A tasty medicine that children will really like are lollipops with ginger and honey. The method of preparing them is not complicated. Add a teaspoon of ground ginger and lemon juice to a glass of honey. This mixture should be placed in a bowl with a thick bottom and cooked for an hour and a half over low heat.

Then the hot mixture can be distinguished by silicone molds, which are thoughtfully greased with vegetable oil. After they harden, you can treat them to the sick.

Features of the treatment of flu and colds during pregnancy and breastfeeding

How to treat influenza in adults is a question that often arises among expectant mothers. After all, it is very difficult to avoid the disease for 9 months. The flu can cause serious complications and cause not only premature birth, but also miscarriage. For this reason, treatment cannot be done at home; a woman should definitely seek help from a doctor.

When treating influenza in pregnant women, not all drugs are approved for use. Due to harmful effects on the fetus. Paracetamol is prescribed to pregnant women as an antipyretic. It can also be taken for headaches. Antipyretics should be taken no more than once every 5 hours.

Gargle with Furacilin solution. Pharmacies sell a ready-made solution. But it must be diluted with water in a 1:1 ratio. You can prepare such a solution yourself: crush Furacilin tablets and dilute with 800 ml of water.

To treat cough, expectorant mixtures based on herbal ingredients are used. Such mixtures should include marshmallow root and thermopsis. You need to take this mixture 4 times a day, 1 spoon. It will not harm either mother or child. There is no need to get too carried away with medicinal drugs.

Interferon can be used in the second and third trimester of pregnancy. Other antiviral drugs are prohibited during pregnancy. Antibiotics are prescribed by a doctor only in cases of complications of influenza and acute respiratory viral infections.

During breastfeeding, a mother is prohibited from doing many things. During this period, she follows a special diet, goes out little, and wears special clothes. If a mother happens to get sick, then she needs to choose a treatment that will not harm the baby.

There is no need to stop breastfeeding while treating a flu or cold. Scientists have proven that along with milk, the baby receives antibodies that are produced by the mother’s body.

This is a kind of vaccination that will strengthen his immunity. If the child’s body is weakened, the disease will be milder. Refusal of breastfeeding is justified in the case of using medications that can harm the baby.

Prohibitions during treatment for a nursing mother:

• Taking illegal drugs. The instructions for use always indicate contraindications.
• Taking medications that have been little studied.
• Do not treat yourself.
• Aspirin, drugs with bromhexine.

If the mother has to take illegal drugs, the child is transferred to complementary foods until the mother recovers. At that time, you need to constantly pump in order to maintain lactation and then return to breastfeeding again.

In case of complications, the woman is prescribed antibiotics that are compatible with breastfeeding.

To treat cough, expectorant syrup (for example, Gedelix) or herbal preparations (for example, Chest) are used.

For a runny nose, use saline solutions or special sprays. It must be remembered that the use of vasoconstrictor drops is allowed for one week, once or twice a day.

Antipyretics can only be used if the temperature exceeds 38 - 38.5C. You can use Paracetamol or Nurafen for a child over 1 month old.

Gargle with a solution of furatsilin and Miramistin.

In addition to drug treatment, expectant and nursing mothers must follow certain rules that will help them recover faster. Here are the basic rules:

• Get enough sleep;
• Drink plenty of fluids (water, berry fruit drinks);
• Ventilate the room every 2 hours;
• Eat properly.

For treatment, you can use traditional methods. But first you need to consult your doctor about the ingredients used.

Prevention of influenza and ARVI in adults: effective methods

There are many different methods for preventing influenza and ARVI. It is most effective to use them in combination.

The following activities will be the most accessible and effective:

• Air and water hardening of the body;
• Flu vaccination;
• Proper nutrition;
• Systematic intake of vitamins;
• Maintaining hygiene;
• Taking antiviral medications;
• When communicating with patients, wear a gauze bandage;
• During an epidemic, rinse your mouth with saline solutions (soda with salt), potassium permanganate, and decoctions of medicinal herbs;
• Every time before going outside, put oxolinic ointment in your nose;
• Massotherapy.

Flu vaccination: where to get it, side effects, whether an adult should get the vaccine

Doctors began talking about influenza vaccination as an effective means of preventing this disease a very long time ago. The flu shot may not always prevent infection, but it can relieve symptoms and help avoid complications.

If you get a flu vaccine, then the question of how to treat the flu will disappear for a long time

The drug is administered intramuscularly. For adults, the injection is given in the shoulder, and for young children, in the thigh. The vaccine is not given in the buttock, since it is very difficult to reach the muscles in this place and the drug can be injected into the subcutaneous tissue, which will not have the desired effect.

• Possible side effects:
• pain at the injection site;
• slight increase in temperature;
• fatigue;
• weakness and muscle pain;
• headache;
• itching at the injection site;
• there is redness or hardness at the injection site.

Should adults get a flu shot or not? This is a question many people ask.

And everyone makes their own choice, taking into account the pros and cons of vaccination.

Pros of vaccination:

• immunity to one or more types of influenza;
• if infection occurs, the disease will be mild and will not lead to complications;
• free vaccination at the clinic;
• strengthens the body's defense system;
• no age restrictions for adults.

Disadvantages of vaccination:

• the virus mutates and the vaccine may not be effective;
• possibility of an allergic reaction;
• availability of low-quality vaccines;
• examination before vaccination for allergic reactions and absence of signs of a cold.

Taking into account the pros and cons of flu vaccination, everyone makes a decision whether or not to get vaccinated.

Preventative tablets for influenza

Algirem is an antiviral drug developed on the basis of rimantadine using an original method. The drug also has an antitoxic effect, due to which side effects are rarely observed. Algirem can be used by both adults and children.

Tablets are indicated for use for prevention and at the first symptoms of the disease. This will ease the course of the disease. Studies have shown that Algirem protects the body and helps prevent disease.

Anaferon is considered the best preventative agent for children and adults. In addition to the preventive effect, this drug also has medicinal properties. Anaferon alleviates the patient's condition and reduces the possibility of complications. You can take pills only after it has been prescribed by a doctor, as there are many contraindications.

Arbidol is one of the most powerful antiviral and immunomodulatory drugs. This medicine is also prescribed for pneumonia and bronchitis caused by complications after the flu. Arbidol suppresses the virus that has entered the body and does not allow it to develop.

Immunal is made from plant components that stimulate the human immune system. Does not cause any side effects.

Another herbal medicine is Fitogor. It contains components of sage, calendula, mint and lemon balm. It helps improve metabolism and strengthen the immune system.

Reaferon is used to prevent influenza. It promotes the production of the body's own interferon, which helps strengthen its protective functions. This drug belongs to the group of potent drugs, so its use is possible only after a doctor’s prescription.

Remantadine suppresses the influenza virus. During illness, it reduces fever and cures headaches. Remantadine is able to protect the body from viruses type A and B. It is most effective to take it together with No-shpa. It is allowed to be taken only from 7 years of age and in the dosage prescribed by the doctor. It has been noted that the drug has a side effect on the liver.

To know how to properly treat the flu, you first need to consult a medical specialist. Only correct implementation of all doctor’s recommendations and comprehensive treatment will lead to a quick recovery for both adults and children.

Videos: how and with what to treat influenza and ARVI

Video tips. How to treat influenza in adults and children:

How to treat the flu at home:

• Treatment Goals

  The goal of treatment is the timely start of etiotropic therapy (in the first hours of the disease), pathogenetic therapy (in the first two days from the onset of the disease), elimination of intoxication, prevention of bacterial complications, increasing the immunological reactivity of the body, prevention of complications from the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.

Treatment of mild and uncomplicated moderate forms of influenza is carried out on an outpatient basis (at home).

Hospitalization in an infectious diseases hospital is carried out according to clinical and epidemiological indications.

• Indications for hospitalization
  • Clinical indications for hospitalization.
    • Severe flu.
    • Development of emergency conditions (infectious-toxic shock, encephalopathy, acute respiratory or cardiovascular failure).
    • Presence of complications.
    • Patients with moderate severity with an unfavorable premorbid background (presence of chronic diseases of the lungs, cardiovascular, endocrine systems).
  • Epidemiological indications for hospitalization.
    • Patients from organized and closed groups (military personnel, boarding school students, students living in dormitories) if it is impossible to isolate them from others at their place of residence.
    • Patients for whom it is impossible to organize constant medical supervision (residents of remote and hard-to-reach areas).

• Treatment methods
  • Non-drug treatment
    • Mode. Bed rest is indicated during the entire febrile period and intoxication, as well as until the acute period of complications is eliminated. After the temperature has normalized and the symptoms of intoxication have disappeared, semi-bed rest is prescribed, and after three days - a general regimen.
    • Diet. Mechanically and chemically gentle. In the first days of illness, the diet is predominantly dairy-vegetable; as recovery progresses, the diet is expanded, increasing its energy value. Liquid intake up to 1500-2000 ml, fractionally, in small portions. The liquid should contain vitamins C and P (5% glucose solution with ascorbic acid, tea (preferably green), cranberry juice, rosehip infusion or decoction, compotes, fruit juices, especially grapefruit and chokeberry). The diet should contain foods rich in vitamins with sufficient amounts of protein.
    • Physiotherapy. Physiotherapeutic methods of treatment consist of aerosol therapy (warm, moist inhalations with bronchodilator prescriptions).
  • Drug treatment Etiotropic therapy. Consists in prescribing antiviral drugs.
    • The drug of choice is Arbidol (0.05 mg Arbidol) is prescribed to children 2-6 years old, 1 tablet 3-4 times a day for 3-5 days;
      Arbidol 0.1 g is prescribed to children 6-12 years old, 1 tablet 3-4 times a day for 3-5 days,
      children over 12 years old and adults: 2 tablets 3-4 times a day before meals for 3-5 days or
    • Ingavirin - for adults (not used in children and adolescents under 18 years of age) 1 capsule per day for 5-7 days.
    • Remantadine (Remantadine) for adults and children over 14 years of age on the first day, 100 mg 3 times a day, on the 2nd and 3rd days - 100 mg 2 times a day, after meals, with a sufficient amount of liquid or
    • Remantadine (Orvirem) in the form of syrup for children 1-3 on day 1 - 10 ml (2 teaspoons) syrup (20 mg) 3 times a day, days 2-3 - 10 ml 2 times a day, 4 Day 1 – 10 ml once a day; children 3-7 years old on the 1st day 15 ml (30 mg) 3 times a day, 2-3 days - 15 ml 2 times a day, 4th day - 15 ml 1 time a day, children 7 -14 years daily dose up to 150 mg/day or
    • Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) orally for adults, 1-2 capsules, for children over 12 years old – 1 capsule every 12 hours for 5 days.
    • Zanamivir. Used in the form of inhalations through the mouth using a diskhaler, 2 inhalations of 5 mg 2 times a day for 5 days.
    • Tiloron (Amiksin) 0.125 g 1 time per day orally after meals for the first two days, then 0.125 g every 48 hours for a week (no more than 6 tablets per course of treatment), children over 7 years old - 0.06 g in the first two days, then 0.06 g every 48 hours (3-4 tablets in total) or
    Interferon inducers.
    • Alpha interferon preparations:
      • Interferon alpha-2b (Grippferon) nasal drops in each nasal passage for children from 0 to 1 year, 1 drop 5 times a day, from 1 to 3 years, 2 drops 3-4 times a day, from 3 to 14 years, 2 drops 4-5 times a day, adults 3 drops 5-6 times a day; or
      • Interferon alpha (Human leukocyte interferon with low antiviral activity (up to 10,000 IU)) 3-5 drops into the nasal passages 4-6 times a day or in the form of inhalations 2 times a day (for 2-3 days) when the first symptoms appear flu symptoms;
      • Interferon alpha-2 in suppositories: Viferon-1 is used to treat newborns and children under 7 years of age, Viferon-2 is used to treat adults - 1 rectal suppository 2 times a day for 5 days.
    • Inducers of endogenous interferon.
      • Cridanimod (Neovir) is prescribed intramuscularly in the early stages of the disease, 2 ml of a 12.5% ​​solution (250 mg) for 1 to 4 injections with an interval of 24-48 hours, depending on the severity of the disease; or
      • Cycloferon for uncomplicated influenza: on day 1, 4 tablets at a time, on days 2, 4 and 6 - 2 tablets once a day before meals (a total of 10 tablets per course). For the treatment of severe and complicated forms of influenza, Cycloferon solution for injection is used, 2 ampoules of 12.5% ​​Cycloferon are administered intramuscularly (4 ml) on days 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 13, 16, 19 and 22 treatment.
    Pathogenetic therapy.
    • Antihemorrhagic therapy:
      • Ascorbic acid (Ascorbic acid effervescent tablets or Ascorbic acid powders) up to 1000 mg/day;
      • Rutoside (Rutin) 1 tablet 3 times a day;
      • Calcium gluconate (calcium gluconate) 2-6 tablets 2-3 times a day.
      • In case of nosebleeds, anterior tamponade of the nasal passage is performed with tampons moistened with a 3% solution of hydrogen peroxide, and cold is applied to the nasal area.
      • Menadione sodium bisulfite (Vikasol) intramuscularly, 1 ml for an additional 3-4 days for hemostatic purposes.
    • Desensitizing agents:
      • Mebhydrolin (Diazolin) 1 tablet 3 times a day; or
      • Clemastine (Tavegil) orally for adults and children over 12 years old, 1 tablet, for children aged 6-12 years, 1/2 tablet; or
      • Chloropyramine (Suprastin) for adults and adolescents over 14 years old, 1 tablet 3-4 times a day, children from 7 to 14 years old, 1/2 tablet 3 times a day, from 2 to 6 years old, 1/3 tablet 2-3 times per day, for children from 1 to 12 months, 1/4 tablet 2-3 times a day, crushed to powder form; or
      • Cyproheptadine (Peritol) syrup for children from 6 months to 2 years 0.4 mg/kg per day, 2-6 years 6 mg in 3 doses, over 6 years and adults 4 mg 3 times a day; or
      • Ebastine (Kestin) for adults and children over 15 years old, 1-2 tabs or 10-20 ml of syrup once a day, children from 6 to 12 years old, 1/2 tab or 5 ml of syrup once a day, children from 12 to 15 years: 1 tablet or 10 ml of syrup once a day; or
      • Loratadine (Claritin tablets) for adults and children over 12 years old, 1 tablet or in the form of syrup (Claritin syrup), 10 ml of syrup 1 time per day, for children from 2 to 12 years old, 5 ml of syrup or 1/2 tablet 1 time per day ( with a body weight of less than 30 kg), with a body weight of 30 kg or more, 10 ml of syrup or 1 tablet once a day.
    • Antitussives and expectorants:
      • Bromhexine (Bromhexine tablets or Bromhexine dragees) 8-16 mg 2-3 times a day; or
      • Ambroxol (Lazolvan tablets, Ambrohexal tablets, Ambrosan tablets, Halixol tablets) for adults: 1 tablet 3 times a day, for children under 12 years old: 1/2 tablet 3 times a day, or
      • Lazolvan syrup, Ambrohexal syrup, Chalixol syrup 4 ml 3 times a day, syrup for children under 2 years old 2.5 ml, over 5 years old 5 ml 2-3 times a day, adults in the first 2-3 days 10 ml 3 times a day, then 5 ml 3 times a day; or
      • Prenokdiazine (Libexin) - 1 tablet 2-3 times a day; or
      • Codelac 1 tablet 2-3 times a day or Codelac Phyto syrup orally for children from 2 to 5 years old - 5 ml per day, children from 5 to 8 years old - 10 ml per day, children from 8 to 12 years old - 10 -15 ml per day, children from 12 to 15 years old and adults - 15-20 ml per day; or
      • “Cough tablets” orally, 1 tablet 2-3 times a day, or
      • Acetylcysteine ​​(ACC 100) 1 sachet per glass of hot water or 1 effervescent tablet dissolved in 100 ml of water, from 2 to 5 years, 100 mg 2-3 times a day, up to 2 years, 50 mg 2-3 times per day, ACC 200 tablets. or ACC 200 granules for adults and adolescents over 14 years old 200 mg 3 times a day, children from 6 to 14 years old 200 mg 2 times a day or ACC long 600 mg 1 time a day.
    • Vasoconstrictor drops (sprays) in the nose.
      • Naphazolin (Sanorin in the form of an emulsion or Sanorin 0.1% solution, or Naphthyzin 0.05% solution for children or Naphthyzin 0.1% solution for adults), or
      • sprays of oxymetazoline hydrochloride solutions 0.05% (Nazol; or Nazivin in age-related dosages), or
      • xylometazoline hydrochloride 0.1% - 10.0 ml: Galazolin; or "Fornos"; or "Xymelin"; or "Otrivin") 2-3 times a day. The duration of continuous (2-3 times a day) administration of vasoconstrictor drops should not exceed 3-5 days. If it is necessary to use vasoconstrictor drops (sprays) for a longer period of time, take a break after each course, replacing the vasoconstrictor drops with Aqua-Maris physiological solution in the form of drops for children under 1 year old, 2 drops in each nostril 4 times a day, or “Aqua-Maris” » in the form of a spray for children from one year to 7, 2 injections into each nasal passage 4 times a day, from 7 to 16 years old, 4-6 times a day, 2 injections, adults 4-8 times a day, 2-3 injections and/ or Pinosol oil drops, 1-2 drops in each nostril 3-4 times a day.
    • Antipyretics and analgesics: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs: Coldrex, or Acetylsalicylic acid (Upsarin Upsa or Upsarin Upsa with vitamin C); or Paracetamol (Panadol 1 tablet 2-3 times a day, for children - Panadol in the form of syrup; or "Calpol" in the form of syrup); or Ibuprofen "Nurofen" in the form of syrup according to the scheme depending on age.
    • Combined pathogenetic agents.
      • "Antigrippin" 1 powder 3 times a day for 3-4 days;
      • "Antigrippin-Anvi" is used in children over 12 years of age; or
      • "Theraflu" 1 sachet per glass of hot water 2-3 times a day.
    • Homeopathic remedies.
      • Oscillococcinum in granules in the initial stage of the disease - 1 dose once, if necessary, repeat 2-3 times with an interval of 6 hours, severe stage of the disease - 1 dose in the morning and evening for 1-3 days or
      • Aflubin drops for children under 1 year old, 1 drop, for children 1-12 years old - 5 drops, for adults and adolescents - 10 drops 3 times a day for 5-10 days.
    Vitamin therapy. It consists of prescribing complex vitamin preparations: Adaptogens of plant origin. In case of asthenic syndrome during the period of convalescence, herbal adaptogens are prescribed:
    • Aralia tincture, or
    • Chinese lemongrass, or
    • Eleutherococcus tincture, 1 drop per year of life (up to 30 drops) 3 times a day 30 minutes before meals.
    Antibacterial therapy (broad-spectrum antibiotics) is prescribed for elderly people suffering from concomitant chronic diseases, patients with immunodeficiency, and with complicated influenza.
    

    Isolated pathogen	Antibiotics of the first stage	Antibiotics of the second stage (alternative)
    Str.pneumonia	Benzylpenicillin, Amoxicillin, Oxacillin	III generation cephalosporins, Macrolides, Fluoroquinolones, Lincomycin, Ampiox, Co-trimoxazole
    Str.pyogenes	Benzylpenicillin, Oxacillin
    Staph.aureus: - sensitive to benzylpenicillin; - resistant to benzylpenicillin; Methicillin-resistant	Benzylpenicillin The amount of therapy administered depends on the severity of the flu and the presence of complications. In mild and moderate forms of the disease in the absence of complications, bed rest, plenty of fluids (up to 1-1.5 liters per day) containing vitamins C and P, a mechanically and chemically gentle diet, one of the antiviral drugs, symptomatic remedies and complex vitamins are prescribed . In severe cases, drug treatment includes the following: Etiotropic therapy. Antiviral therapy or for severe forms of influenza accompanied by bronchiolitis and pneumonia, ribavirin is used orally after meals for adults 0.2 g 3-4 times a day, children 10 mg/(kg*day) in 4 doses for a course of 3-5 days. For patients on mechanical ventilation, ribavirin is administered by inhalation through a nebulizer at a dose of 20 mg/(kg*day) (6.0 g in 300 ml of sterile water) for 2 hours 2 times a day for a course of 3-5 days. Immunoglobulins. In case of severe toxicosis, all patients with severe forms of influenza, regardless of the length of hospitalization, are administered anti-influenza donor gamma globulin intramuscularly to adults at 3-6 ml, children - from 0.15-0.2 ml/kg body weight to 1 ml (1 dose) Once a day for 3 days, or normal human immunoglobulin for intravenous administration, containing high titers of anti-influenza and anti-staphylococcal antibodies, 25-50 ml are administered along with isotonic sodium chloride solution in a ratio of 1:5 intravenously (no more than 20 drops per minute ) every 1-2 days. Protease inhibitors. Gordox 100,000 units in 10 ml ampoules is administered intravenously at an initial dose of 500,000 units slowly at a rate of 50,000 units/hour or 100,000 units every 2-3 hours, as the condition improves, the dose is gradually reduced to 300,000-500,000 units /day To prevent allergic reactions, individual sensitivity to the drug is determined (0.2 ml intradermally) or Contrical in dry form in bottles of 10,000 units is dissolved in 400-500 ml of isotonic sodium chloride solution and administered intravenously (slowly). Single doses 10,000-20,000 units. To prevent allergic reactions, contrical solutions are administered against the background of antihistamines. Contrical (trasylol 10,000-20,000 units) in combination with heparin 5000 units simultaneously, then 500-1000 units every hour under control of blood clotting; fresh frozen plasma, warmed to 37 ° C (on the first day - 600-800 ml intravenously, then 300-400 ml every 6-8 hours, on subsequent days - 400-800 ml per day. With each transfusion to activate antithrombin - III, 2500 units of heparin should be administered per 400 ml of plasma; antiplatelet agents - curantil 100-300 mg 3 times a day, acetylsalicylic acid 0.25 g 1 time a day. In the hypocoagulation phase, intravenous jet administration of fresh frozen plasma is carried out, proteolysis inhibitors are prescribed. Heparin and antiplatelet agents are discontinued. Respiratory analeptics. In order to normalize hemodynamics in the pulmonary circulation: sulfocamphocaine 10% 2 ml subcutaneously or intramuscularly, 2-3 times a day; Cordiamine 2-4 ml subcutaneously, intramuscularly or intravenously 3 times a day for severe arterial hypotension. Cardiac glycosides. Prescribed in case of a significant decrease in the contractility of the left ventricle (with the development of infectious-allergic myocarditis) - corglicon 0.06% to 1 ml; strophanthin 0.05% to 1 ml intravenously in small doses. Sedatives. When convulsions or psychomotor agitation occur, intramuscularly “lytic mixture” - 1 ml of 2.5% solution of aminazine, 1% solution of diphenhydramine, 1% solution of promedol or sodium hydroxybutyrate 20% solution 10 ml intravenously slowly. When pneumonia develops, in addition to complex etiopathogenetic treatment of influenza, from the moment the diagnosis of pneumonia is established, these patients are prescribed rational antibacterial therapy based on anamnestic data, clinical and radiological picture and the probable nature of inflammation, since bacteriological examination gives delayed and sometimes uncertain results. Discharge rules Those who have had the flu are discharged after complete clinical recovery with normal results of blood and urine tests, but not earlier than 3 days after normal body temperature has been established. The period of temporary disability for a mild form of influenza is at least 6 days, for those who have had moderate forms of influenza - at least 8 days, for those who have suffered severe forms - at least 10-12 days. Upon discharge from hospital, sick leave can be issued for up to 10 days. Clinical examination For persons who have had uncomplicated forms of influenza, dispensary observation is not established. Those who have suffered complicated forms (pneumonia, sinusitis, otitis, mastoiditis, myocarditis, damage to the nervous system: meningitis, meningoencephalitis, toxic neuritis) are subject to medical examination for at least 3-6 months. For persons who have suffered a complication such as pneumonia, rehabilitation measures are carried out (in an outpatient clinic or sanatorium setting), and they are subject to mandatory medical examination for 1 year with control clinical and laboratory examinations 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after the illness . Treatment effectiveness criteria. The criterion for the effectiveness of the therapy is the disappearance of the symptoms of the disease. The duration of fever during influenza for more than 5 days may indicate the presence of complications.

Flu- a viral disease transmitted by airborne droplets, characterized by an acute onset, severe intoxication and predominant damage to the upper respiratory tract.

Types of influenza virus, what are the names of H1N1, H3 N2 ?

There are three types of influenza virus: virus A, B and C. And each of them is divided into different subtypes. The variety of influenza virus variants is determined by 2 protein complexes located on the surface of the virus shell: hemagglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N). These structures are factors of virus aggression. The properties of hemagglutinin determine the intensity of intoxication during the disease, and neuraminidase significantly reduces the body's immune functions. New variants of the influenza virus appear as a result of variability in these surface complexes. Depending on the variant of the virus, it is designated by the corresponding formula. Example: virus A (H1N1), Where A this is a type of virus N - hemagglutinin, N- neuraminidase, and the numbers are their different variants.

Cause and mechanism of development of the disease

The influenza virus, entering the surface of the mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract, invades cells and begins to multiply. It destroys the cell and, together with toxins, enters the blood (viremia and toxinemia). Spreading throughout the body, the virus affects the immune, cardiovascular and nervous systems. All this creates a favorable background for the addition of a microbial infection and the development of complications (sinusitis, tonsillitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, etc.).

Symptoms

The clinical picture of influenza is represented by 2 main groups of symptoms:

1. Symptoms of general intoxication

Symptoms of general intoxication

• Severe chills, soon replaced by fever
• Cutting headache (forehead, brow ridges, temples, eyes).
• Photophobia
• Dizziness, possible fainting
• Weakness
• Brokenness
• Decreased performance
• Sweating
• Body aches
• Muscle pain (especially in the back)
• Joint pain
• Sleep disturbance
• High temperature 39-40 °C and above

• Dryness and sore throat
• Nasal congestion (scanty discharge)
• A dry cough, often painful, becomes milder on the 3-5th day with the release of scanty mucous sputum.

Appearance of a patient with influenza
In the first days of the illness, the patient's appearance resembles that of a tearful child: pronounced redness and puffiness of the face, shiny and reddish eyes. The mucous membrane of the palate, arches, and walls of the pharynx is bright red.

Possible complications of influenza

Complications can be divided into 2 groups:

1. Complications caused directly by the virus
2. Complications caused by a microbial infection (attached or activated by a chronic focus in the body).

1st group of complications:

• Pulmonary edema(shortness of breath, bluish skin, nervous agitation, expectorated sputum is often streaked with blood, decreased blood pressure, rapid heartbeat). This severe complication is rare but can be fatal.
• Swelling of the vocal cords(more often in children, it develops suddenly, in most cases at night, attacks of suffocation, anxiety, rapid heartbeat; if appropriate assistance is not provided, death is possible).
• IN inflammation of the membranes of the brain(meningitis – severe headache, nausea, vomiting without feeling better, convulsions).
• Brain swelling– diffuse headache, possible loss of consciousness, convulsions.
• Bleeding in the brain, resulting in the possible development of paralysis.
• Allergization of the body, possible development of bronchial asthma, glomerulonephritis.
• Pain along the nerves (neuralgia)
• Radiculitis
• Myocarditis
• Heart rhythm disturbances (arrhythmias)
• Endocarditis

2nd group of complications:

• Pneumonia (usually on the 4th-5th day of illness). Manifestations: cough with mucopurulent or purulent sputum, chest pain, shortness of breath.
• Acute sinusitis (sinusitis, sinusitis)
• Pharyngitis
• Tonsillitis
• Influenza infection can activate hidden foci of infection in any part of the body (genitourinary system, respiratory, nervous, etc.).

Diagnostics

General blood analysis

• Leukocytes: reduced, for the first time sick days may increase to 11.0-12.0 10 9 /l
• Eosinophils: reduced
• Lymphocytes: increased (increase relative to due to decrease in neutrophils)
• Monocytes: increased relatively, due to a decrease in neutrophils
• ESR: in most cases normal

Specific diagnostics

• Immunofluorescence analysis (XRF) reaction– the test consists of determining the corresponding type of virus using special protein molecules (antibodies) capable of emitting a glow.
• Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)– the test is based on the fact that the specific structures of the virus or the antibodies produced by the body against it are determined from labeled enzymes.
• PCR- the test determines the genetic apparatus of the virus, DNA or RNA. Currently, this is the most sensitive method for diagnosing infectious diseases.

Virological research- isolation of the virus on chicken embryos, rarely used.

Additional research methods
Considering possible complications, it is recommended to take an ECG and an X-ray of the lungs.
In making a diagnosis flu, Epidemiological data are also of great importance (high incidence rates among the population during the cold season).

Treatment

Flu treatment is carried out at home. Only severe disease or the presence of one of the symptoms: temperature 40-41°C, vomiting, convulsions, shortness of breath, arrhythmia, decreased blood pressure - requires hospitalization.

General treatment

• Bed rest during periods of elevated body temperature
• Drink plenty of fluids (juices, tea with lemon, raspberries, alkaline mineral waters, milk)
• Light meals rich in vitamins and minerals

Treatment to fight the virus

Antiviral drugs are prescribed only in cases of severe or moderate disease. The drugs are effective only in the first days of illness(maximum up to 5-7 days).

• Rimantadine– the drug is effective against virus A. Application: the first day 300 mg in 3 doses, the second and third days 200 mg in 2 doses, on the fourth day 100 mg in one dose.
• Oseltamivir- effective against viruses A and B. Application: 150 mg, in 2 doses for 5-7 days.
• Arbidol– effective against viruses A and B. Application: 600 mg per day for three doses, 5-7 days.
• Viferon– the drug is well suited for children
• Alternative drugs: human leukocyte interferon, interferon alpha-2 , Tiloron , Cycloferon , Kagocel, Ridostin.

Treatment aimed at eliminating the mechanisms and symptoms of the disease:

• Antipyretic drugs(paracetamol, ibuprofen, indomethacin, etc.), are necessary only in cases of significant rises in temperature and when the fever is difficult to tolerate and can lead to serious complications (eg convulsions), in other cases the body uses temperature to fight
• Antihistamines(Tavegil, Diazolin, Zyrtec, etc.). These drugs prevent the development of edema, relieve inflammation and prevent allergic reactions.
• Expectorants(acetylcysteine, bromhexine, ambroxol, etc.). The drugs dilute sputum and facilitate the separation of bronchial mucus.
• Drugs that improve nasal breathing(naphthyzine, xylometazoline, etc.). An important point in treatment. Ensuring good aeration of the respiratory tract reduces the risk of microbial complications and speeds up the healing process.
• Antibiotics do not act on the virus, and therefore for influenza they are used only in special cases: 1) the presence of a chronic focus of infection, 2) signs of the addition of a microbial infection, 3) weakening of the body with severe immunodeficiency, 4) the duration of high fever for more than 5 days with symptoms of severe intoxication.

Prevention

Nonspecific prevention includes methods and means aimed at increasing the body's resistance to pathogens.

• Hardening procedures ( dousing, walking barefoot, etc.).
• Multivitamin preparations(Undevit, Hexavit, Vitrum, Decamivit, etc.).
• Drugs that strengthen the immune system(Timalin, Prodigiosan, T - activin, etc.).

Specific prevention - These are vaccines against a specific type of virus.

Types of vaccines against influenza virus
There are two types of vaccines: live and inactivated (killed).

Live vaccines are weakened viruses (deprived of the ability to cause disease). The vaccine is sprayed into the nasal cavity. High percentage of formation of strong and long-term immunity to the virus. But with this comes a large percentage of adverse reactions.

Inactivated vaccines there are two types:

1. Whole vaccines, which consist of purified unresolved virus bodies (virions). Advantages: Provides more lasting and reliable immunity against the virus. Disadvantages: High likelihood of side effects.

2. Split vaccines (split vaccines), contain various virus structures, are highly purified from virus particles capable of causing undesirable reactions in humans.

• Fluarix
• Vaxigrip
• Begrivak

3. Vaccines consisting only of proteins located on the surface of the virus (subunit vaccines):

• Influvac
• Grippol
• Agrippalus
• Fluad

Subunit vaccines are better tolerated than others, since they are the most well purified and do not contain aggravating substances (virus toxins, egg whites, etc.) that cause undesirable reactions from the body. Disadvantages: the development of immunity and its durability are lower than that of whole vaccines.

Vaccine effectiveness

The effectiveness of vaccines has been proven by many studies. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, based on an analysis of all available data on vaccination against the influenza virus, states that vaccines:

• reduce the incidence of influenza,
• reduce the number of side effects after the flu,
• facilitate recovery and course of the disease,
• reduce mortality from influenza.

Emergency prevention

• Use of an antiviral drug in small doses (Remantadine, 0.05 g once a day for 7 days). Begin reception when the first sick person appears in the family or a person from a close circle.
• Oxolinic ointment 0.25%, lubricate the nasal mucosa 2 times a day.
• Interferon, is mostly used for emergency prevention of influenza in children. Human leukocyte interferon is available in ampoules in dry form. The contents of the ampoule should be dissolved in 2 ml of boiled water and instilled into the nose 2 times a day, 5 drops, throughout the entire dangerous period of possible infection.

Forecast

In most cases of influenza, complete recovery will occur. On average, the period of incapacity for work ranges from 5-7 days and up to 21 days in cases of pneumonia.

How is influenza transmitted?

Source of influenza virus- an infected person with erased or pronounced signs of the disease.

What's happening? When coughing, sneezing or talking, particles of saliva, sputum or mucus are released into the surrounding air from the patient's nasopharynx along with influenza viruses. Next, a healthy person becomes infected from a patient by inhaling contaminated air - airborne transmission.

At the same time, on outdoors the influenza virus is most concentrated in a diameter of about 2-3 meters around the patient, indoors- about 7 meters. Whereas beyond this distance the number of viruses in the environment is reduced by almost 60-70%.

Also, the number of viruses released into the environment by patients decreases, if he breathes through a medical mask, or covers his mouth and nose with a handkerchief when coughing or sneezing.

Moreover, it is important to remember that a person with the flu is contagious even before the first signs of illness appear: approximately 24 hours. After the onset of the disease, it continues to release influenza virus into the environment until 5-7 days of illness.

How long does the influenza virus live?

The maximum incidence of influenza occurs in January-February. During the rest of the year, influenza practically does not occur. However, there is still a small risk of catching the flu virus in late fall or early spring.

This is due to the fact that people spend more time in enclosed spaces, which are not always sufficiently ventilated. Therefore, favorable conditions and temperature conditions are created so that one sick person can infect a large number of people.

For example, when air temperature +4°C Influenza viruses remain viable for up to 4 hours, with room temperature in the patient’s room - from 2 to 9 hours.

In the same time influenza viruses contained in droplets of dried saliva or sputum, settle on clothing or surfaces, and can remain viable for about 2 weeks. True, a lot depends on the material from which the objects are made - for example, on a metal or plastic surface - 24-48 hours, glass - up to 10 days. However in room dust Flu viruses can last up to five weeks!

Therefore, it is necessary to promptly and thoroughly carry out wet cleaning in the patient’s room, as well as in other rooms during the period of maximum incidence of influenza. In addition, you should maintain personal hygiene: wash your hands with soap after going outside and visiting public places.

Moreover, it is important to remember that influenza A viruses, the causative agents of severe forms of the disease, have the greatest resistance in the external environment.

Who gets the flu more often?

People of all ages are susceptible to the flu. However, children, pregnant women, the elderly, and patients with chronic heart, lung and kidney diseases (especially chronic renal failure) are at high risk.

Because their immune system is impaired and the body’s compensatory mechanisms are weakened. Moreover, the disease is often severe, with the development of serious complications: pneumonia, pulmonary edema (excessive accumulation of fluid in the lungs), meningitis (inflammation of the membranes of the brain), laryngotracheitis (inflammation of the larynx and the initial parts of the trachea) and others.

In addition, children have a much higher risk of catching the virus due to the fact that they attend organized children's groups with great crowding: kindergartens, schools, sections, clubs.

What are the symptoms of flu in children?

From the moment of infection until the first signs of the disease appear, from several hours to three days passes - the incubation period.

Moreover, the manifestations of the disease are not characteristic only of influenza. Therefore, in order to distinguish influenza from ARVI or colds with 100% certainty, it is necessary to conduct special laboratory tests. For example, isolate the influenza virus in throat swabs or determine antibodies against it in the blood.

However, there are still certain signs indicating the presence of the influenza virus in the body.

Manifestations of influenza in children consist of two complexes symptoms:

• General intoxication- arise from the first hours of the disease and grow quickly.
• Lesions of the upper and lower respiratory tract - joins a little later: usually on the 2-3rd day of illness.

Moreover, the severity and duration of symptoms of influenza in children depend on the severity of the disease.

Symptoms of general intoxication

They are caused by the introduction of the influenza virus into the body and the decay products of the cells of the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract, which have a toxic and allergic effect on the body.

They are actually the “calling card” of the flu, since it is characterized by the onset of the disease with a sharp increase in body temperature to high numbers. Moreover, the manifestations are often so pronounced that it is possible to accurately indicate the hour of onset of the disease. Whereas with ARVI or a cold, these symptoms appear gradually.

Fever and chills are caused by the production of special substances in the body - pyrogens, which transmit a signal to the thermoregulation center in the brain. Next, the mechanism of increasing body temperature is triggered: muscle tremors intensify, which increases the formation of heat, and heat transfer decreases due to vasospasm.

Then, with good functioning of the thermoregulation center, the vessels dilate, so the child becomes hot to the touch and sweats. If this does not happen, the baby turns pale and his limbs become cold.

Against the background of increased body temperature, moderate shortness of breath may appear (a compensatory reaction of the body) without the participation of auxiliary muscles: there is no retraction of the intercostal muscles and no flaring of the wings of the nose.

It is important to remember that in most cases, the numbers of elevated body temperature indicate the severity of the child’s condition: with moderate severity they reach 38-38.5°C, with severe disease - 39-40°C. When the baby's condition improves, the body temperature quickly returns to normal.

A repeated increase in body temperature is a sign of a bacterial infection or an exacerbation of chronic diseases.

Influenza viruses irritate pain receptors and also lower the pain threshold, so children become more susceptible to pain. In addition, the infectious process triggers mechanisms to increase the production of inflammatory mediators (prostaglandins, substance P and others) - special substances that increase swelling and pain.

With the flu, the headache is severe, usually located in the area of ​​the eyebrows, brow ridges and temples. There is also pain in the area of ​​the eyeballs, which intensifies when moving the eyes or pressing on them.

Pain in muscles and joints, body aches are present even at rest and significantly intensify with movement.

Severe weakness, weakness, sleep disturbances (drowsiness or insomnia), poor appetite, nausea and vomiting

Caused by intoxication of the body with a virus and decay products of cells in the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract.

Moreover, nausea and vomiting are more typical for severe forms of influenza, and in mild cases they usually do not occur.

Increased tendency to bleed from injection sites, nose, stomach or intestines

It occurs very rarely and only with extremely severe influenza - the hypertoxic form. The symptom is caused by the toxic effect of the influenza virus on the body and the massive breakdown of cells in the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract, which leads to impaired blood clotting.

Painful eye sensitivity to light (photophobia)

It is caused by irritation by the influenza virus of the sensitive nerve endings of the trigeminal nerve, located in the anterior parts of the eyes.

It manifests itself as increased pain in the eyes when exposed to a bright light source, so the child squints his eyes or covers them with his palm.

Symptoms of respiratory tract damage

In children they are usually much more pronounced than in adults.

Dryness and sore throat, nasal congestion, pain or pressure behind the sternum, hoarseness

They are caused by the introduction of the virus and damage to the mucous membrane of the upper and lower respiratory tract (pharynx, trachea, vocal cords, bronchi), which leads to local inflammation and swelling.

In addition, with influenza, unlike ARVI, nasal congestion is not pronounced, and discharge from it is absent or scant.

Also, it is with the flu that tracheobronchitis (inflammation of the trachea and bronchi) most often develops, which is often severe, followed by long-term persistence of cough.

Tearing

It is associated with swelling of the mucous membrane of the nasolacrimal duct and nasal cavity due to inflammation, therefore the natural outflow of tear fluid from the eyes is disrupted.

Cough

Caused by irritation of nerve endings in the respiratory tract, which leads to an impulse. It is then transmitted to the respiratory center, which coordinates the movement of the muscles of the bronchi, diaphragm, larynx, chest and abdomen.

How does this happen? First, an inhalation occurs, followed by a tense exhalation with the glottis closed and the bronchi contracted. At this moment, intrathoracic pressure increases, which leads to the opening of the vocal cords and rapid exhalation through the oral cavity - a cough occurs, along with which particles of mucus or sputum are expelled from the respiratory tract.

At the beginning of the disease Flu cough is dry, rough, annoying and painful, and sometimes paroxysmal. Sputum is either absent or scanty. Subsequently, the cough becomes moderately wet.

During a strong cough (at altitude), young children sometimes experience vomiting, due to the fact that the vomiting and cough centers are nearby. Therefore, they may simultaneously become irritated due to the fact that children's brain structures are immature.

Abdominal muscle pain

They arise due to muscle contraction during a painful and prolonged cough.

Minor hemorrhages in the mucous membrane of the mouth and eyes, skin of the face and neck

During a cough, the pressure in the superior vena cava increases, so when the capillaries tend to become brittle, small hemorrhages occur.

How does influenza occur in infants?

Children under one year of age have less contact with others, so they are less likely to get the flu than children of school and preschool age. In addition, if the child is breastfed, then the antibodies in mother's milk often protect the baby well from infection.

And yet, infants are at risk because they have an imperfect immune system that cannot adequately fight back the virus. Therefore, if they become ill with influenza, their course is severe: complications develop and/or a secondary infection occurs.

Flu symptoms in infants develop according to the usual scenario, as in older children:

• Initially, symptoms of intoxication appear: body temperature rises, the child refuses to eat, and so on.
• After a short time, signs of damage to the respiratory tract appear: cough, nasal congestion and other symptoms.

However there is a difference: manifestations of the disease develop much faster - within a few hours or one or two days. In addition, the situation is further aggravated by the fact that children under one year old cannot speak.

Therefore, a mother should be attentive to her baby - and then he will “tell” everything that happens to him with his behavior.

At moderate severity

With the onset of the disease, the baby’s behavior changes dramatically: he becomes very capricious, cries, refuses to eat, and develops hoarseness and a painful cough.

In severe cases

The child is lethargic, apathetic (detached to everything that is happening around), the skin becomes pale, and the limbs may be cold.

Often appears dyspnea, which indicates the development of complications: swelling of the vocal cords (laryngotracheitis) or lungs, influenza pneumonia and others. In this case, auxiliary muscles are involved in the act of breathing: the intercostal spaces are retracted and/or the wings of the nose are inflated.

What are the different forms of influenza?

Based on the severity of general toxic manifestations and symptoms of respiratory tract damage, There are several variants of the course of influenza.

Moreover, the severity of the disease depends not only on the type of influenza virus, but also largely on the initial state of health of the patient. Because in the presence of chronic diseases or disorders of the immune system, there is a high risk of a severe course of the disease with the development of a large number of complications.

Also available pattern regarding children: The younger the child, the more severe the flu. This is the case because young children have imperfect compensatory mechanisms in the body and an immature immune system. In addition, the influenza virus further suppresses its work. Therefore, a bacterial infection quickly sets in, further aggravating the course of the disease.

Light form

It is characterized by an increase in body temperature to 38°C, which responds well to antipyretics, returning to normal on the second or third day of illness.

Symptoms of upper respiratory tract damage are not pronounced.

In general, the general condition of patients is moderately impaired, so the manifestations of a mild form of influenza are more reminiscent of ARVI.

Moderate form

Most common.

Phenomena of intoxication expressed and come to the fore:

• Body temperature rises sharply to 38-39.5 ° C and lasts for four to five days, decreasing when taking antipyretics.
• Patients experience lethargy, weakness, severe headache, muscle pain and body aches.
• There is photophobia and lacrimation.

Symptoms of respiratory tract damage also manifest themselves more clearly: a painful dry cough, dryness and sore throat, “scratching” pain behind the sternum, nasal congestion.

Moreover, a bacterial infection is often associated with the development of viral-bacterial or bacterial pneumonia, leading to a worsening of the patient’s general condition.

Severe form

It develops somewhat less frequently, while the condition of patients quickly worsens over a short period of time.

Manifestations of intoxication:

• The disease begins acutely with an increase in body temperature to 39.5-40°C, which is difficult to respond to conventional antipyretics based on paracetamol or ibuprofen.
• The patient develops sudden and severe weakness, severe headaches and muscle pain, disturbed sleep, dizziness, sometimes even fainting.
• Occasionally, delirium, hallucinations, convulsions and loss of consciousness may occur.
• Sometimes viral meningitis (inflammation of the membranes of the brain) develops. In this case, a headache appears so severe that the adult groans and the child screams. There is also severe pain in the back and neck, which intensifies when turning the head.
• Sleep is disturbed: drowsiness or insomnia occurs.
• Nausea and repeated vomiting often occur.

Respiratory damage:

• A painful, severe cough appears that does not bring relief.
• Nasal breathing is impaired.
• There is constant shortness of breath, which worsens with movement or minor physical activity - a sign of a high risk of developing complications from the flu.
• Viral or viral-bacterial pneumonia often develops. In this case, auxiliary muscles are usually involved in breathing: the intercostal spaces are retracted and/or the wings of the nose are inflated.
• Laryngotracheitis often occurs, which leads to a sharp and rapid narrowing of the larynx. It manifests itself as a “barking” cough, shortness of breath when inhaling and a change in voice.

Characteristic appearance of patients with severe influenza: facial expression is pained, the skin is pale with an earthy tint. Often a positive symptom of “pinch” occurs: the formation of a bruise when a fold of skin in the subclavian region is compressed due to increased fragility of blood vessels.

Hypertoxic form

Rarely seen. In this case, the disease begins with a sharp increase in body temperature to 40-41°C. Subsequently, all flu symptoms increase very quickly, often within several hours or one or two days, determining the extremely severe course of the disease.

This form is characterized by toxic damage to the brain (neurotoxicosis) and cerebral edema (excessive accumulation of fluid in the cells of the brain or spinal cord), impaired blood clotting, the functioning of the cardiovascular system and kidneys, pulmonary edema with the development of respiratory failure.

If patients are conscious, they are restless and complain of a feeling of lack of air. However, consciousness is often quickly disturbed: hallucinations and delusions appear. With further deterioration of the general condition, patients lose consciousness or fall into a coma.

If timely medical care is not provided, then with the hypertoxic form of influenza, in 40-60% of all cases of the disease, patients die within a few hours or days.

How does influenza manifest in pregnant women?

During pregnancy, a woman's immunity physiologically decreases. As a result, the immune system “does not see” the fetus, which is a foreign body for the mother’s body. This condition is necessary to maintain pregnancy. Therefore, the expectant mother has a high risk of contracting any infectious diseases, including the flu.

Moreover, the flu during pregnancy manifests itself with the usual symptoms. However, during an “interesting situation,” the signs of the disease usually develop much faster, and the disease itself often occurs in a severe form. In addition, a secondary bacterial infection often occurs: viral-bacterial or bacterial pneumonia, inflammation of the sinuses (sinusitis) and others develop.

How dangerous is the flu during pregnancy?

Much depends on the stage of pregnancy at which the expectant mother fell ill with the flu.

In the first trimester of pregnancy - up to 12 weeks

The formation of all organs and systems in the fetus occurs, so the influence of the influenza virus often has a detrimental effect on these processes. As a result, there is a high risk of developing any congenital malformations - for example, heart, lung or kidney defects.

Moreover, there is reliable information that the most common developmental defects of the central nervous system are: hydrocephalus (excessive accumulation of fluid in the brain), brain cysts, spina bifida (spinal malformation combined with spinal cord defects) and others.

How is influenza treated in children?

The main task is to suppress the reproduction of influenza viruses, as well as their ability to damage healthy cells of the body.

In addition, intoxication and respiratory tract damage are combated, as well as complications are treated.

Antiviral drugs for children against influenza

An important condition: start taking antiviral medications as early as possible. Optimally - in the first 48 hours from the onset of the disease.

Drug name	Mechanism of action	How to use
First line drugs - are considered the most effective.
Remantadine	At an early stage of the disease, it suppresses the reproduction mainly of the influenza A virus after its penetration into the cells of the mucous membrane of the respiratory system.	Prescribed from the age of one year in the form of 0.2% syrup, from the age of seven - in tablets.
Arbidol	Acts on influenza A and B viruses, suppressing their reproduction. It also enhances the body’s production of interferon (a protein with antiviral activity) and moderately improves the functioning of the immune system.	It is prescribed orally in capsules or tablets before meals, starting from the age of three.
Tamiflu and Zanamivir	They act on influenza A and B by inhibiting the activity of neuraminidase in their shell, which contributes to the release of mature viruses from infected cells of the respiratory tract. According to statistics, when these drugs are used from the first days of the disease, in 40% of cases there is a significant improvement in the condition of patients and a reduction in the period of illness, in 50% the incidence of complications decreases.	Tamiflu Appointed from the age of one year. It is used orally regardless of food intake, but its tolerability is better when taken with meals. Zanamivir Prescribed from the age of five years in the form of inhalations using the included inhaler.
Second line drugs acting against a larger number of varieties of viruses: influenza viruses, ARVI pathogens and others.
Viferon - synthetic interferon drug	Actions of interferon: Protects body cells from viruses. It triggers processes in cells that inhibit the reproduction of the virus. It interferes with the exit of viral particles from an infected cell. Moderately stimulates the immune system.	The drug is available in the form of suppositories and is administered rectally - into the rectum. It is used in children from the neonatal period, including premature babies.
Grippferon and Amiksin	Promote the production of interferon in the body. The mechanism of action is the same as that of Viferon.	Amiksin is prescribed to children over seven years of age once a day on days 1, 2 and 4 of use. Grippferon For the treatment of influenza it is used in nasal drops.
Groprinosin (Isoprinosine)	Blocks the reproduction of viruses. Stimulates the activity of certain cells of the immune system - macrophages, which capture and digest viruses, bacteria and foreign particles. Improves the functioning of the immune system as a whole.	It is prescribed orally after meals in tablets, starting from the age of three, in syrup - from one year.

On a note!

The duration of taking antiviral drugs for uncomplicated flu is usually 5 days, for severe flu - up to 8-10 days. If longer treatment is necessary, the doctor makes a decision individually in each specific case.

It is important to take antiviral medications at regular intervals.

Combating symptoms of general intoxication

Aimed at lowering body temperature, reducing pain and improving general condition.

Drinking plenty of fluids is recommended

Children can drink mineral water without gases or plain water, weak warm chamomile tea. Older children, if they do not have allergies, can be offered to drink warm tea with raspberries, lemon or honey.

Antipyretics and painkillers

They affect the pain and thermoregulation center in the brain, helping to lower body temperature and reduce pain.

They also inhibit the production of inflammatory mediators (special substances) in tissues, which reduce swelling, pain and inflammation.

Only paracetamol-based drugs are approved for use in children(Cefikon D, Panadol, Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Nurofen, Ibuprofen, Advil).

For ease of use, medicines are available in the form of syrups, suppositories and tablets.

Moreover, paracetamol has a more pronounced antipyretic effect, while ibuprofen has an anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect.

In severe cases, a lytic mixture is injected intramuscularly, containing a solution of Analgin, Diphenhydramine and Papaverine.

Indications for administration:

• Temperature above 39°C.
• At temperatures up to 38°C: age up to three months, there is information about the occurrence of earlier seizures against the background of elevated body temperature, the presence of severe chronic diseases.

It is recommended to use the lytic mixture no more than two or three times during the entire period of the disease.

Important!

Acetylsalicylic acid, as well as drugs based on it (Amidopyrine, Aspirin), are not used in children. Because it causes the development of a large number of complications - for example, Reye's syndrome (acute inflammation of the brain and rapid accumulation of fat in the liver).

Treatment of respiratory tract damage

Aimed at improving the function of the respiratory system, which promotes recovery.

To combat painful dry cough antitussives are prescribed, which reduce its intensity, but do not completely suppress the work of the cough center - for example, Libexin.

For wet cough agents are prescribed that thin and improve sputum discharge: Ambroxol, Bromhexine, Plantain Syrup and others.

To restore breathing through the nose drugs are used that reduce local swelling: Nazivin, Rinofluimucil, Pinosol and others.

Antihistamines for influenza

Antihistamines reduce swelling of the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract and enhance the effect of painkillers. Therefore, breathing through the nose improves, the intensity of the cough decreases and the general condition is alleviated.

When dry cough Dextromethorphan is used, which, unfortunately, inhibits the excitability of the cough center. Therefore, it is used starting from the second trimester of pregnancy. In the first semester - only in case of urgent need.

You can also carry out inhalations 3-4 times a day using an ultrasonic or compressor inhaler, using mineral water or 0.9% saline solution. They will arrange a kind of “shower” in the respiratory tract, moisturizing and washing away mucus from them. Therefore, not only does the cough decrease, but also breathing improves.

Good help inhalations with pharmaceutical drugs, from which solutions for inhalation are prepared. For example, you can use Rotokan, which has an anti-inflammatory effect and helps restore the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract.

To facilitate nasal breathing

It is allowed to use Pinosol in drops or sprays containing essential oils that locally reduce swelling and inflammation, and also help restore the nasal mucosa.

It is not recommended to use drugs containing vasoconstrictors during pregnancy - for example, Nazivin. Because it has been proven that they can cause the formation of malformations in the fetus.

To fight the influenza virus

Viferon is allowed for use: in suppositories from the 14th week of pregnancy, and ointment - at any stage. You can also use Grippferon in the form of nasal drops throughout pregnancy.

Tamiflu is prescribed at any stage of pregnancy, but only if the benefit to the expectant mother is greater than the possible risk to the fetus.

Prevention of the development of fetoplacental insufficiency

Drugs are used in small doses to prevent blood clotting (Fragmin) and platelet aggregation (Curantil, Dipipyridamole). Medicines are also prescribed to improve metabolism and oxygen supply to tissues (Actovegin)

When a bacterial infection occurs

Antibiotics approved for use during pregnancy are prescribed depending on the duration: penicillins (Ampicillin, Amoxiclav), cephalosporins (Cefazolin, Ceftriaxone), macrolides (Erythromycin, Vilprafen).

Treatment of severe forms of influenza

It is carried out only in a hospital setting: symptoms of intoxication are combated (solutions are administered intravenously), glucocorticoids are prescribed for pulmonary or cerebral edema, and other drugs.

The use of folk remedies

Figs helps reduce dry cough and “scratching” pain in the chest.

Pour 100 grams of dry fruits with 400 milliliters of hot milk or water. Then simmer the prepared raw materials over low heat for 15-20 minutes, then remove from heat and leave for two to three hours. Take 100 milliliters 2-3 times a day.

Turnip juice used to thin and improve mucus discharge during wet coughs.

Method of preparation and use

Grate the turnips on a fine grater and squeeze out the juice. Then mix the juice with honey in the ratio: 3 parts turnip juice and 1 part honey. Next, place the resulting raw material on the fire and bring to a boil, then remove from the heat and cool. Take one tablespoon three to four times a day 10-15 minutes before meals.

However, unfortunately, some folk remedies, instead of being useful, can to harm for the expectant mother and fetus - for example, increase the tone of the uterus or provoke the development of uterine bleeding.

Therefore, it is not recommended to use oregano, licorice and elecampane, pine buds, plantain, coltsfoot, thyme, violet and sage on your own during pregnancy. If necessary, some herbs can be used, but only after consulting a doctor.

Flu- a respiratory disease of viral etiology, as a rule, has an acute course, provokes a number of complications, and the recovery period is much longer, unlike ARVI. Influenza is an epidemiological disease that occurs at least once a year. The outbreak of the virus can be judged by the sudden increase in the number of patients visiting a medical facility complaining of cold symptoms.

First of all, the disease spreads among children, in schools, kindergartens, etc. After a short time, the virus also affects the adult population. Infectious disease spreads quickly by airborne droplets, so it’s quite easy to get infected. The latent (incubation) period of the pathology is on average 5-6 days, after which an acute course of the disease and corresponding symptoms are observed. Treatment for influenza will depend on the severity of the disease and its form.

Flu symptoms: first signs

In most cases, the main symptom of the virus is headache. There is an increase in body temperature, general weakness, and a feeling of nausea. Against the background of all the symptoms, a decrease in blood pressure and the development of tachycardia are possible. A sharp development of nasal congestion, swelling of the mucous membrane, dry cough and sore throat is possible.

Some patients report disruptions in the gastrointestinal tract and the development of diarrhea. But, as a rule, this symptom is not a sign of influenza and most likely occurs as a side effect when treating influenza with drugs or as a result of an intestinal infection.

Main signs of the virus

Unlike the symptoms of acute respiratory viral infections or acute respiratory infections, the signs of influenza are characterized by rapid and sudden development. The virus begins with an acute course and a pronounced febrile state.

The main signs of pathology are the following:

• central body temperature 39-40 degrees;
• muscle and joint pain;
• body aches, general malaise, weakness;
• the initial symptom of conjunctivitis, hyperemia of certain areas of the skin;
• dry cough that turns into a “barking” cough;
• swelling of the nasal mucosa, clear discharge;
• acute pain in the throat, especially pronounced when swallowing.

The most important thing is to recognize the symptoms of flu in time and begin treatment. It should be taken into account that antiviral drugs such as Amizon or Aflubin exhibit a therapeutic effect within 2 days; their use after a longer period of time is not entirely advisable.

The drug Amizon is effective as a prophylactic agent.

It actively stimulates the immune system, helps it cope with infectious agents, and triggers the process of interferon production. After taking the drug over the next 6-8 hours, the level of interferon in the body increases almost 3 times, and after 10-12 - 4 times. If you start taking Amizon on the first day after detecting signs of influenza, the symptoms of the disease can be eliminated 2 times faster. The drug also protects the body from the development of complications during the disease.

The influenza virus is highly contagious and is easily transmitted even by the slightest contact with a sick person. The ability of an already sick patient to infect others is 8-9 days; the most dangerous period for others is the first 2 days. In large cities and metropolitan areas, influenza spreads as quickly as possible, causing outbreaks and epidemics.

At the moment of coughing, sneezing, talking and even just breathing, a certain number of particles - RNA-containing viruses - are released from the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract of an infected patient. During the release period, an infected zone forms around the sick person, where the maximum number of pathogenic agents is formed. It is at this moment that a healthy person becomes infected.

Symptoms of different forms

How exactly the disease will progress, the severity of symptoms and the risk of future complications depends on many factors, however, the state of the immune system and the body’s ability to fight viruses are fundamental. Influenza can occur in four forms, each with its own symptoms: mild, moderate, severe and with increased intoxication (hypertoxic). Treatment for influenza involves eliminating the underlying virus and eliminating symptoms.

Mild form of flu

A mild form of influenza is characterized by mild symptoms. As a rule, body temperature remains within 38 degrees, there are no symptoms of intoxication. There may be minor pain in the joints and muscles, which can be easily relieved with painkillers. How to treat mild flu? In this case, the standard intake of antiviral drugs and, if necessary, antipyretic drugs is taken.

It should be noted that influenza in adults with a mild form should be treated with bed rest; one should not turn a blind eye to the disease, because at any moment it can worsen.

Moderate form of the virus

The core body temperature rises and can be more than 39 degrees. The symptoms are pronounced - headache, general weakness, increased sweating, swelling of the nasal mucosa, sore throat. The patient may also complain of epigastric pain and signs of diarrhea. A dry cough turns into a “barking” cough with the development of chest pain. The mucous membrane of the larynx and trachea is affected. How to treat influenza in this form? It is mandatory to prescribe medications aimed at eliminating the RNA virus, symptomatic treatment of influenza, as well as means to restore the functioning of the immune system.

Severe form of influenza condition

With this form of influenza, an increase in body temperature to 40-41 degrees is observed. Signs of intoxication are severe; the above-described symptoms of moderate severity are accompanied by nausea, vomiting, bleeding in the nasal cavity, convulsions, delirium and even hallucinations. Hospitalization of the patient is required, therapy is prescribed by the attending physician.

The recovery period after the flu is quite long. Recovery of the body is observed within 3 weeks, during which the patient complains of headache, weakness, and loss of appetite. In some cases, complications may develop, but, as a rule, in patients with chronic pathologies of the lungs and cardiovascular system. It is worth noting that during the flu period, chronic diseases have the ability to worsen. For this reason, flu symptoms may be more severe and recovery may take a longer period. Therefore, it is important that treatment of influenza is accompanied by monitoring the functioning of diseased organs. In case of exacerbations, hospitalization and additional examinations may be required.

How to distinguish signs of influenza from ARVI

In order to correctly adjust the treatment of influenza, it is necessary to be able to clearly identify and understand the difference between the signs of a cold and the flu. Superficially, the symptoms of both diseases are similar, so patients often confuse them, but the flu cannot be cured quickly.

Flu:

1. The virus is characterized by a rapid progression. After 2-3 hours, you can observe the first symptoms of the flu.
2. A febrile condition in which the body temperature can reach 40 degrees.
3. Body aches, sore eyes, feeling of twisting of joints.
4. Swelling of the nasal mucosa, however minor (this applies to patients without a diagnosis of sinusitis).
5. Redness of the mucous membrane of the throat, the presence of plaque on its walls.
6. The nodes of the lymphatic system do not enlarge.
7. Digestive disorders: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea in children.
8. The duration of the disease is about 10 days, but the patient may feel weak for several weeks. For this reason, it is not always possible to quickly cure the flu.

ARVI (ARI):

1. Signs of the disease appear slowly, the first symptoms can be noticed 2-3 days after infection.
2. The central body temperature does not exceed 38 degrees and most often lasts no more than two days.
3. There is a feeling of weakness and aches in the body, but not significant.
4. Nasal congestion, swelling of the mucous membrane, frequent sneezing, runny nose with copious discharge of clear secretion.
5. The mucous membrane of the throat is loose, with a reddish tint.
6. Possible enlargement of the nodes of the lymphatic system.
7. As a rule, there is no digestive disorder.
8. The disease lasts no more than a week, the recovery process is quick, there is no rehabilitation as such.

At the first symptoms of the flu, it is advisable to limit communication with other people, take sick leave if possible, and begin therapy with antiviral drugs as soon as possible.

Typical symptoms and treatment selected by a doctor allow you to cope with the disease at its first manifestations without harm to health. Before treating influenza in adults, additional diagnostics should be carried out to exclude damage to internal organs.