Flu (Influenza)

Here you will get an overview of the pathology, the ability to treat diseases with Oriental medicine, and with acupressure therapies along with other therapies combined.

The information is updated gradually and regularly. For reference only, not a substitute for your doctor.

Introduction

Flu or Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that affect the nose, throat, and lungs. The flu can cause mild to severe illness, and in some cases, it can lead to serious health complications. While most people recover from the flu without any complications, it can be especially dangerous for children, elderly people, pregnant women, and people with compromised immune systems. 

Causes of Flu (Influenza)

The flu is caused by influenza viruses, which are highly contagious and can spread through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. You can also catch the flu by touching a surface contaminated with the virus and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes. There are several strains of influenza viruses, including A, B, C, and D. Influenza A and B viruses are responsible for most seasonal flu outbreaks, while influenza C viruses cause milder respiratory illness.

Risk Factors of Flu (Influenza)

Some people are more susceptible to getting the flu than others. People who have a weakened immune system, such as older adults, young children, pregnant women, and people with chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease, are at higher risk of getting the flu. Other risk factors for the flu include:

Symptoms of Flu (Influenza)

The symptoms of the flu can vary from person to person, but they typically include:

Prevention of Flu (Influenza)

The best way to prevent the flu is to get vaccinated each year. The flu vaccine is usually available in the fall and is recommended for everyone over six months of age. Other ways to prevent the flu include:

Treatment of Flu (Influenza)

If you do get the flu, there are several things you can do to help relieve your symptoms and speed up your recovery. These include:

Antiviral medications such as Tamiflu and Relenza can also be used to treat the flu. These medications work by preventing the virus from multiplying in your body and can help reduce the severity and duration of your symptoms. However, they are most effective when taken within the first 48 hours of symptom onset.

Oriental Medicine for Flu (Influenza)

Oriental medicine, acupuncture, and acupressure are alternative therapies that can be used to treat the flu. Oriental medicine is a holistic system of medicine that includes acupuncture, herbal medicine, and other therapies that work to restore balance and harmony to the body. Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow and promote healing. Acupressure is similar to acupuncture, but instead of needles, pressure is applied to specific points on the body using fingers, thumbs, or other tools.

In Oriental medicine, the flu is believed to be caused by an imbalance in the body's energy flow. Acupuncture and acupressure can help to restore balance and harmony to the body, which can improve immune function and reduce symptoms of the flu.

There are several acupuncture points that are commonly used to treat the flu, including the Lung, Large Intestine, and Stomach meridians. These points are believed to help relieve symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, and congestion, as well as boost immune function.

Herbal medicine is also commonly used in Oriental medicine to treat the flu. Some common herbs used to treat the flu include ginger, garlic, and ginseng, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

While there is limited scientific research on the effectiveness of Oriental medicine, acupuncture, and acupressure for treating the flu, some studies have shown promising results. For example, a 2011 study found that acupuncture was effective in reducing the duration and severity of flu symptoms in children.

Conclusion

The flu is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can cause mild to severe symptoms. While there is no cure for the flu, there are several things you can do to prevent and treat it. Getting vaccinated each year, washing your hands frequently, and avoiding close contact with people who are sick are all important steps to prevent the flu. If you do get the flu, getting plenty of rest, staying hydrated, and taking over-the-counter medications can help relieve your symptoms. Oriental medicine, acupuncture, and acupressure are alternative therapies that may also be helpful in treating the flu, although more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness.

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