How To Get Rid Of The Flu In 24 Hours

It is not possible to completely cure the flu within 24 hours, but certain steps can significantly relieve symptoms and may help you feel much better by the end of the day^[3]. The most important actions are to rest, stay hydrated, and manage symptoms effectively.

• Rest: Prioritize sleep and downtime to allow your immune system to fight the virus^[3].
• Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids such as water, herbal teas, and clear broths. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, since they can worsen dehydration^[3][4][5].
• Symptom Management: Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen reduce fever and body aches. Decongestants can help with nasal congestion^[1][3].
• Antiviral medication: If you are within the first 48 hours of symptoms, prescription medications like oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or zanamivir may shorten the duration and severity of the flu. Contact a healthcare provider to discuss if these are appropriate for you^[1][5].
• Nutrient intake: Eat easy-to-digest, immune-supportive foods such as citrus fruits, red bell peppers, spinach, and yogurt. These provide vitamin C and antioxidants that may help boost recovery^[1].
• Natural remedies:
  • Warm teas with honey and lemon can soothe a sore throat and cough; honey is also a natural antibacterial^[2][4][6]
  • Peppermint tea, ginger tea, and steam inhalation can relieve symptoms^[2][4][6].
  • Gargling with salt water helps ease throat pain and reduce bacteria^[2][4][6].
  • Chicken soup and ginger offer hydration and antioxidants while soothing symptoms^[4][8].
• When to seek medical help: Consult a doctor immediately if you develop shortness of breath, chest pain, persistent high fever, confusion, dehydration, or symptoms in high-risk groups (such as young children, elderly, or chronic illnesses)^[4].

While these measures can help you feel much better within a day, the flu itself usually lasts several days, and full recovery takes time^[7].

References

• [1] How to Cure Flu Fast: 5 Tips for Quick Flu Recovery – AllCare
• [2] Flu symptoms and natural remedies – physiomer
• [3] How to Get Rid of the Flu in 24 Hours – Home Ground Pharmacy
• [4] Cold and Flu: Home Remedies, Natural Treatments, & When to Seek Help – Elliot Hospital
• [5] How to treat the flu at home in 6 easy steps – HealthPartners
• [6] Natural Flu Remedies: For Symptom Relief and to Shorten Duration – Healthline
• [7] Try These 12 Tips for Fast Flu Recovery – Healthline
• [8] 15 Natural Home Remedies for the Cold and Flu – Healthline