Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Who is at Risk? - Treatment for Influenza

Who is at Risk? 
Influenza can be dangerous to the elderly, especially those who live in residential homes where there is more risk of contracting the virus through contact with others.
People with lung and heart diseases are also more likely to develop complications due to an attack of flu.
Those at risk are advised to get a yearly vaccination. Consult your doctor if you have any problems or questions.

Treatment for Influenza:
Specific treatment for influenza will be determined by your physician based on:
  1. your age, overall health, and medical history.
  2. extent and type of influenza, and severity of symptoms.
  3. your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies.
  4. expectations for the course of the disease.
  5. your opinion or preference

The goal of treatment for influenza is to help prevent or decrease the severity of symptoms. Treatment may include:
  1. medications to relieve aches and fever (Aspirin should not be given to children with fever without first consulting a physician). The drug of choice for children is acetaminophen (Tylenol).
  2. medications for congestion and nasal discharge.
  3. bed rest and increased intake of fluids.
  4. antiviral medications - when started within the first two days of treatment, they can reduce the duration of the disease but cannot cure it. Four medications have been approved and include amantadine, rimantadine, zanamivir, and oseltamivir. Some side effects may result from taking these medications, such as nervousness, lightheadedness, or nausea. Individuals with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are cautioned about using zanamivir. Viral resistance to these drugs may vary. Some drugs may be ineffective if current viral strains have developed resistance. All of these medications must be prescribed by a physician.
  5. Consult your physician for more information.

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