On a cold winter morning, Uncle Zhang, as usual, prepared to go to the park for his morning exercise. However, the difference was that he felt that something was wrong with him - a sore throat, a slightly elevated body temperature, and a slight cough. It reminded him of a saying circulating in the community: "The flu is raging again." "The older you get, the more worried you are about the virus. But Uncle Zhang knows that as long as he has the right knowledge and methods, he can effectively deal with this challenge.
Influenza, a word that we are not unfamiliar with, poses a threat to people's health in different seasons every year, especially for our middle-aged and elderly people, and its impact cannot be underestimated. Influenza A and B, as the two main subtypes of influenza viruses, change every year, bringing new challenges. However, whether it is a flu A or a flu, we have the means to prevent it.
Influenza, an acute respiratory infection caused by the influenza virus, affects millions of people worldwide. It is important to understand the basics of influenza especially for middle-aged and older adults, as they are at high risk of complications from influenza. Influenza is divided into types A and B, both of which can cause epidemics, but they differ in viral structure and epidemic patterns.
Influenza A viruses are highly variable and can cause global epidemics, while influenza B viruses usually cause regional epidemics。Symptoms of influenza A are usually more severe and include high fever, severe headache, extreme fatigue and a dry cough. Influenza B, although the symptoms are similar, are usually milder.
One of the most effective measures to protect against the flu is to get a flu vaccine, especially for middle-aged and older adults, and annual vaccination is a crucial step to protect themselves from the flu. In addition, maintaining good personal hygiene, such as washing hands frequently and using tissues to cover coughs or sneezes, can also reduce the spread of the flu.
In the fight against influenza A and B, Western medicine has provided a range of effective antiviral drugs. These drugs can reduce symptoms, shorten the duration of the disease, and sometimes even stop the virus from replicating.
Oseltamivir (Tamiflu): As an oral antiviral drug, oseltamivir can effectively inhibit the activity of influenza viruses and is suitable for influenza A and B. It is most effectively used within the first 48 hours of infection and significantly reduces symptoms and the duration of illness.
Zanamivir (Relenza): Present as an inhaler, zanamivir is effective against both influenza A and B viruses. It helps reduce the spread of the virus in the body by blocking the release of virions.
Peramivir (Rapivab): As an intravenous drug, peramivir is mainly used to manage severe cases of influenza. It directly inhibits viral replication and is suitable for patients of all ages.
Ribavirin: Although not the drug of choice specifically for influenza, ribavirin can be used as an alternative** option in some cases, especially when other antiviral drugs are ineffective.
Xofluza: is the latest approved anti-influenza drug that inhibits viral replication through a unique mechanism。The advantage of Primavilast is that it is effective in a single dose and is suitable for patients aged 12 years and older.
The emergence of these antiviral drugs has brought hope to the ** of influenza. However, it is important to follow your doctor's guidance when using these medications, as they may interact with other medications or may not be appropriate for certain populations (e.g., pregnant women, people with chronic medical conditions).
In the face of influenza A and B, Chinese medicine offers a unique and effective set of methods. These methods are not only deeply rooted in ancient medical wisdom, but also partially validated by modern research. Next, we will take a look at five Chinese medicines and their applications in the fight against influenza.
Yinqiaosan: Nature's antiviral guard
Yinqiaosan, a compound composed of forsythia and honeysuckle, has long been used to relieve symptoms such as fever and sore throat。Its principle of action is to promote the secretion of sweat glands, which reduce body temperature through sweating, and at the same time have mild antiviral and antibacterial effects. Yinqiaosan is suitable for the early stage of influenza, especially if it is accompanied by fever and sore throat.
Radix Radix: A natural antiviral agent
Radix radix, a widely recognized Chinese herbal medicine, has been shown to inhibit a variety of viruses, including influenza viruses。It can be used as a daily drink to reduce flu symptoms by improving the body's ability to fight viruses. Its cold nature also helps to remove heat toxins from the body, relieving sore throats and fevers.
Ephedra Soup: A Modern Interpretation of a Classic Formula
Ephedra decoction is a traditional Chinese medicine prescription with ephedra as the main medicine, which is suitable for cold symptoms caused by wind and cold, such as fever, no sweating, cough and nasal congestion. It helps relieve the early symptoms of the flu by diaphoresis and nasal polyps. However, ephedra should be used with caution, especially for heart patients and the elderly, and it is recommended to use it under the guidance of a doctor.
Honeysuckle: A natural remedy for clearing away heat and detoxifying
Honeysuckle, with its heat-clearing and detoxifying, antiviral and antibacterial properties, is widely used for various infectious diseases, including influenza. It relieves sore throats, lowers fever, and fights viral invasion. Honeysuckle tea is a simple and effective way to drink it, and it is suitable for daily health care during flu season.
Dandelion: an antibiotic from nature
Dandelion, this common wild plant not only has a good anti-inflammatory effect, but also shows antiviral abilities, especially against influenza viruses. Its roots and leaves can be used to make tea or soup, help clear away heat and detoxify, and strengthen immunity. Dandelion is suitable as part of flu prevention and adjunct**.