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swine influenza treatments
Infectious Diseases
Question #7489
30 days ago
39

swine influenza treatments - #7489

Anonymously

A few weeks ago, I started feeling really unwell with flu-like symptoms, and my doctor told me that it could be swine influenza, especially with the way my symptoms developed so quickly. I’m a bit worried because I’ve heard that swine influenza can be serious, especially for older adults or people with weakened immune systems, and I’m in my early 40s with asthma. I’m wondering if swine influenza requires any special treatments or if the typical flu medications will be effective. I’ve had the flu in the past, but I’ve never dealt with swine influenza before, and I’m nervous because it seems like it can be much more severe. My doctor prescribed some antiviral medication, and I’m taking it, but I’ve also been doing some research on the condition. Are there any specific medications or treatments that are recommended for swine influenza, and are there any over-the-counter options that can help manage symptoms like fever, cough, or body aches? Also, is there any difference in the way swine influenza is treated compared to regular flu? I’ve heard about some of the more severe cases leading to pneumonia or hospitalization, and I’m really hoping to avoid that. How can I reduce my chances of complications, and should I be keeping track of any specific symptoms to look out for that could indicate a worsening of the illness? I’m also curious if swine influenza vaccines are the same as regular flu shots, or if I should get a specific vaccine to protect myself from this strain in the future. Since I’ve had asthma for years, does that increase my risk of complications from swine influenza, and what precautions should I take next time flu season rolls around?

Swine influenza
Flu treatments
Antiviral medication
Asthma and flu
Pneumonia risk
Flu vaccine
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Doctors’ responses

Dr. Evgeny Arsentev
I am a highly qualified medical professional with over 15 years of experience in General Medicine. My expertise spans diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions, providing evidence-based care, and mentoring junior doctors. I am dedicated to ensuring patient well-being through a combination of clinical skills and compassionate care.
27 days ago
Swine influenza is treated with antivirals like oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or zanamivir (Relenza), which are effective when taken early in the course of the illness. For symptom relief, over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) can help manage fever, body aches, and cough. It’s important to avoid aspirin, especially for younger individuals, as it can lead to complications like Reye’s syndrome. Make sure you rest, stay hydrated, and manage your symptoms with the guidance of your doctor. While the treatment approach for swine influenza is similar to regular flu, it can be more serious, especially for those with asthma. To reduce your risk of complications, watch for signs of worsening symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or a high fever that doesn’t subside. If you notice any of these, contact your healthcare provider right away. Regarding prevention, the flu vaccine is typically updated each year to include the most common strains, including H1N1. It’s a good idea to get the flu shot each year, especially with your asthma. The flu shot can significantly reduce your risk of severe illness. Continue working closely with your doctor to ensure you're taking the right precautions.
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