For
anyone that has ever had the flu, you’ve probably notice that your muscles ache
in a similar way to when you’ve been to the gym and done a hard workout. This
despite the fact you’ve probably been spending a lot more time in bed. Get more
information about
Workplace flu vaccinations
The
reason for this is because the aches and pains in both cases is caused by
inflammation. When muscles ache when you have the flu, the inflammation is
caused by the influenza virus wreaking havoc on your cells.
Like
other symptoms related to having the flu, arches should resolve themselves
after the virus has left the body. The recovery time can vary from a few days
to generally within 2 weeks. If you experience severe pain, swelling and
weakness you should seek advice from a medical provider like your local GP.
There
are some things you can do to help with body aches during the flu.
• Pain Relief: Over the counter pain
relief and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen
may help. If you can’t take NSAIDs medication you should talk to your
healthcare provider for alternative treatment options.
• Rest: Extra sleep and rest helps your
body heal and fight off infection
• Heat: Try and warm bath or shower to
help relieve body pain. If you have a fever, the water should be lukewarm to
avoid increasing the fever. If you have a high fever, avoid showering as high
fevers can cause dizziness and general weakness.
• Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can cause
your body aches to be more painful and can make it more difficult for your body
to recover. Make sure you drink plenty
of water and electrolyte drinks such as hydrolyte.
Although
not always 100% effective, having the influenza vaccine in the best way to
prevent catching the flu. It is recommended that everyone 6 months of age or
older should be vaccinated annually against influenza. It is recommended that
early autumn is the best time to have the vaccination so that your immune
system has time to be strengthened before the flu season (June to September)
starts. Because your immunity decreases and that flu strains change over
time, it’s important to have the vaccine
each year to continue to be protected from the latest strains of influenzas as
recommended by the World Health Organisation and Australia’s Dept. of Health.
