"Flu leads to serious illnesses when not treated correctly"

Specialist Dr. Murat Yaycı stated, “We should not dismiss the flu. The flu, which is one of the most common illnesses during the winter months, is not taken very seriously by the public. However, the flu can lead to serious illnesses when not treated correctly. 

The flu can be quite severe, especially in children, the elderly, pregnant women, obese individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. He pointed out that the mindset of '7 days with medication, 1 week without' is completely wrong. Dr. Yaycı said, “Flu that cannot be brought under control can turn into more serious illnesses such as pneumonia and meningitis.”

"It can lead to heart-related problems"

Emphasizing that heart-related problems can also occur in 1 out of 4 patients who develop pneumonia due to the flu, Dr. Yaycı listed what should be done if one catches the illness:

"See your doctor as soon as possible"

''There is a treatment for the flu. It is very important for individuals, especially those in risk groups, to consult their doctors from the very first moment symptoms begin. There is a specific treatment available for the virus that causes the flu. With the antiviral treatment your doctor will start, you can significantly shorten the duration of the illness and ensure that the symptoms are milder. In fact, it is known that antiviral treatment started in the early stages leads to a reduction of over 50 percent in more severe outcomes that may develop, such as pneumonia.

"Rest at home"

Your contagiousness begins from the moment symptoms start, or even 1 day before. Your contagiousness continues throughout the duration of your symptoms. Resting at home during your illness both helps you recover and prevents the spread of the illness to those around you. It is best to return to school or work 1 day after the fever has subsided.

"Drink plenty of fluids"

Drink plenty of fluids during your illness. It is not necessary for this fluid to be only water. You can drink orange juice rich in vitamin C, linden tea, sage tea, or lemon tea. All of these fluids soften the mucus in the respiratory system, allowing phlegm to be expelled more easily. Doing this is very beneficial because phlegm remaining in the respiratory tract causes the illness to worsen. The natural treatment for your cough is to drink plenty of fluids.

"Eat well and balanced"

Vitamin C strengthens the body's defense system. Consume fruit, especially citrus fruits. Consuming fresh, dark green leafy vegetables frequently will increase your resistance. Chicken soup also helps your recovery significantly.

"Take precautions for pain and fever"

Having a fever is an indication that your body is fighting the virus. When your fever rises, painkillers and fever reducers taken in addition to antiviral treatment will provide relief.

"Keep your nose clear"

Take care to clean your nose with saltwater. Saltwater is prepared by adding 1 teaspoon of salt into 1 glass of boiled and cooled water. You can clean your nose by squirting the mixture you prepared into your nostrils. If sufficient clearance is not achieved when cleaning with water, taking a hot shower can be a solution to congestion by loosening the mucosa with the steam effect. Again, in a home environment, steaming with hot water and menthol for nasal health relaxes the nose and bronchi.''