Influenza Prevention and Treatment: Strengthening Body Resilience to Combat Viruses
Influenza (commonly known as the flu) is a respiratory infectious disease caused by viruses. It is highly contagious and primarily spreads through respiratory droplets. Symptoms following infection may include fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, fatigue, and nasal congestion. If not treated promptly, it can lead to serious complications.
Differences Between Influenza and the Common Cold
Although the flu and the common cold share similar symptoms, the flu is usually more severe, has a faster onset, and requires a longer recovery period. The elderly, children, and patients with chronic conditions (such as diabetes or asthma) are high-risk groups and should take extra precautions.
Tips for Relieving Cold Symptoms at Home
The following home remedies can help alleviate discomfort and speed up recovery:
1. Chicken Soup with Lemon Juice: Traditional chicken soup helps relieve nasal congestion and promotes the discharge of nasal secretions. Adding a bit of fresh lemon juice provides Vitamin C to accelerate healing.
2. Warm Air Relief: Using a hairdryer to blow warm air toward the face for about 20 minutes can help ease nasal congestion. Ensure the temperature is moderate to avoid burns, and stop immediately if you feel uncomfortable.
How TCM Prevents and Treats Influenza
TCM treatment emphasizes "preventive healthcare" (Zhi Wei Bing), offering unique advantages in prevention and early-stage conditioning.
TCM believes that influenza is caused by the invasion of "External Wind-Cold" or "Wind-Heat" pathogens. The treatment principle focuses on "Strengthening the Righteous Qi and Dispelling Pathogens."
Common TCM prevention methods include:
• Enhancing Righteous Qi: Pay attention to a warming diet, avoid raw and cold foods, and prevent excessive fatigue.
• Moxibustion: Applying moxibustion to points like Zusanli and Guanyuan can help boost immunity.
• Dispelling Wind and Releasing the Exterior: In the early stages of a cold, herbal formulas such as Yin Qiao San or Sang Ju Yin can be used based on individual constitution.
• Recommended Prevention Tea:
- Mulberry Leaves (Sang Ye): 6g
- Chrysanthemum (Ju Hua): 6g
- Honeysuckle (Jin Yin Hua): 6g
- Licorice (Gan Cao): 3g
- Method: Boil in water for 10 minutes and drink daily as tea.
Tips for During a Cold:
• Avoid cold/raw foods (e.g., raw lettuce, watermelon, iced drinks).
• Drink plenty of warm water to promote metabolism.
• Avoid staying up late; ensure high-quality sleep.
• Regulate emotions and maintain a relaxed mood.
• Eat lightly after the fever subsides, gradually increasing nutrition.
If you or your family members catch colds frequently or recover slowly, we recommend seeking medical advice early. Our senior physician, Dr Li Rui, can provide professional diagnosis through "Observation, Listening, Inquiring, and Palpating." By combining acupuncture with personalized herbal conditioning, Dr Li Rui can effectively alleviate symptoms, enhance your body's vital energy, and improve your overall immunity.
