Flu treatment: what actually helps and what to avoid

Most people recover from the flu in about a week, but you can speed relief and avoid complications if you act smart. Antiviral pills like oseltamivir work best if started within 48 hours and can shorten symptoms by roughly a day—useful for high-risk people or severe cases. For everyone else, good home care and watching for red flags will do most of the heavy lifting.

Home care that actually helps

Rest and fluids are not cliché—your body needs both. Drink water, clear broth, or electrolyte drinks. Control fever and aches with acetaminophen or ibuprofen unless your doctor told you otherwise. Avoid aspirin in children and teens because of the risk of Reye’s syndrome.

For cough and congestion, saline nasal spray and steam inhalation ease symptoms without strong side effects. Honey (for kids over 1 year) can calm a cough at night. Over-the-counter decongestants or throat lozenges help short term, but read labels and avoid mixing meds with the same active ingredient.

Antibiotics don’t treat flu. They only help when a bacterial complication develops—like a secondary pneumonia or ear infection. If your doctor doesn’t suspect a bacterial problem, antibiotics are not helpful and can cause harm.

When antivirals or a doctor are needed

If you’re pregnant, over 65, very young, or have chronic lung, heart, kidney, or immune conditions, call your doctor early. Antivirals can prevent severe outcomes for these groups. Also seek care quickly if you have sudden trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion, persistent high fever, or if symptoms get much worse after improving.

Many clinics can prescribe antivirals after a quick evaluation. If you test positive at home and your risk is higher, that’s a good time to call. Don’t delay treatment when your doctor advises it—timing matters.

Prevention beats treatment: get an annual flu shot, wash hands, and stay away from crowded places when you’re sick. Vaccination reduces severe illness even when it doesn’t stop every infection.

Some supplements—like zinc lozenges or high-dose vitamin C—get mentioned a lot. They might help a bit if started early, but expect small benefits at best. Don’t rely on supplements instead of medical care when you need it.

Finally, use common-sense precautions at home: isolate while contagious, clean high-touch surfaces, and wear a mask around high-risk people. If you’re unsure, call your clinic. Quick questions can prevent big problems.

Want simple shopping tips? Look for trusted brands for fever reducers, saline sprays, and oral rehydration solutions. Avoid unknown online sellers for prescription antivirals—get them via your doctor or a verified pharmacy.

If symptoms feel unusual or severe, trust your gut and get medical help. The right step early can keep a regular flu from becoming a hospital case.