When to Seek Medical Attention for Flu and Best Medicines for Flu in Pakistan

Seasonal flu affects many people during the winter and summer seasons. Flu or influenza is a respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses and is highly contagious which means it can pass from one person to another via inhalation of the droplets that are being coughed and remain airborne.

It can be mild or severe, and in some cases, it may lead to complications. Flu has much more severe symptoms than the common cold. Symptoms of flu often include head and body aches, fever, coughing, and a runny or stuffy nose. The main cause of flu includes the yearly epidemics which come and go with seasons. 

People who have an underlying health condition or women who are pregnant are at risk for serious complications. Here is when you should seek immediate help;

When to Seek Medical Attention for Flu?

Early treatment of flu or seasonal influenza usually includes staying warm, pain relief medication like Crocin (Paracetamol), and bed rest. However, if the flu symptoms get worse or persist, you should see a doctor. 

Emergency Flu Symptoms in Children

• Trouble breathing or fast breathing
• Gray or Bluish skin color
• Severe or repeated vomiting
• Not drinking enough fluids
• Not interacting normally 
• Irritable behavior

Emergency Flu Symptoms in Adults

• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Pressure or pain in the belly or chest
• Confusion
• Sudden dizziness
• Severe or repeated vomiting

Best Medicines for Flu in Pakistan

Some of the best medicines for flu in Pakistan include:

1. Arinac Tablet

It is a Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and works by blocking the effect of certain chemicals that cause inflammation and pain in the body. Arinac Forte is a combination of two medicines Pseudoephedrine HCl and Ibuprofen, a decongestant and anti-inflammatory. Forte is prescribed to patients experiencing fever, cold, flu, nasal congestion, etc. 

2. Panadol CF Tablets

Panadol CF is the most common medicine for flu and cold. It has a combination of an antipyretic/analgesic, a decongestant, and an antihistamine. This medicine provides instant relief of nasal congestion and helps with cold and flu symptoms.

Some of the active ingredients in Panadol CF are as follows:

• Chlorpheniramine Maleate BP 4mg
• Paracetamol BP 500mg
• Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride BP 60 mg

3. Softin Tablets

Softin tablet is a second-generation and non-sedating antiallergic drug. It has an active ingredient called Loratadine. It is used to treat cold, flu, allergy-induced asthma, pruritis, allergy urticaria, and decreased hives.

4. Actifed- P Tablets

Actifed-P tablet is a combination of a decongestant, an antihistamine, and an analgesic. It is a very popular over-the-counter combination flu medicine in Pakistan. It is used to treat common colds, seasonal allergies, and other respiratory conditions, including sinusitis, bronchitis, etc.

5. Victrin Tablets (10mg)

Victrin tablet is a second-generation antihistamine with an active ingredient called Loratadine. It is an antihistamine that is used to treat and manage urticaria and allergic rhinitis. It works by inhibiting the effects of a substance called histamine, thus reducing the allergy symptoms.

Conclusion

In conclusion, flu is a discomforting condition that is accompanied by stuffy or a runny nose, feverish feeling, headache, heavy head, etc. It is crucial to take antiviral medication at the initial stage to manage its symptoms. Otherwise, it can get worse. 

However, antibiotics should be avoided at every cost during the flu as they can worsen the condition. Therefore, it is better to follow the general guidelines if your symptoms are common, and in case of serious symptoms, you can consult experts.

FAQs

What is the best flu syrup for babies in Pakistan?

Orbit Naturals, babynol, and Woodward’s are among the best flu syrups for babies in Pakistan.

How does the flu spread?

Influenza viruses are spread mainly by droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. These droplets can be inhaled through the mouth or nose, thus spreading the infection. 

Are antibiotics effective for treating the flu?

No, antibiotics are not effective against the flu. Flu is a viral infection and antibiotics are only prescribed for a bacterial infection.

How long does the flu usually last?

The flu typically lasts 5-7 days, with severe symptoms subsiding within 3-4 days. However, fatigue and weakness can persist for up to two weeks.

What are the common symptoms of the flu?

Flu symptoms include fever, sore throat, cough, stuffy or runny nose, body aches, fatigue, and sometimes vomiting or diarrhea.