Having Flu Symptoms: Should I See a Doctor? | Bai Zi Gui

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is an acute respiratory infection caused by the influenza virus. It is highly contagious and spreads through airborne droplets, direct contact with infected individuals, and other means. Influenza viruses are primarily classified into three types: A, B, and C. Type A and B are responsible for seasonal flu outbreaks. Type A viruses have a high mutation rate and can cause large-scale epidemics, while Type B viruses mutate less but still cause flu outbreaks.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Perspective on Influenza

In TCM, influenza is regarded as a "warm disease" or "epidemic disease," primarily caused by external invasion of wind-heat or wind-cold pathogens. TCM treatment focuses on holistic adjustment by balancing the body's Yin and Yang to restore health.

TCM Theory

According to TCM, the human body is closely linked to natural changes, and climate and environmental factors directly impact health. The occurrence of influenza is related to the invasion of internal and external pathogenic factors. TCM uses methods like expelling wind and relieving the exterior, and clearing heat and detoxifying to treat influenza.

TCM Treatment Methods

Expelling Wind and Relieving the Exterior: This method is used for wind-cold and wind-heat influenza. It involves using herbs such as Gui Zhi Tang (Cinnamon Twig Decoction) and Ma Huang Tang (Ephedra Decoction) to expel external pathogens and restore normal physiological functions.

Clearing Heat and Detoxifying: This is used for wind-heat influenza. Herbs such as Yin Qiao Jie Du Pian (Yin Qiao Detox Pills) and Qing Re Jie Du Tang (Clear Heat and Detoxify Decoction) are used to clear internal heat and toxins, alleviating symptoms.

Regulating the Spleen and Stomach: This helps restore immune function. Common herbs include Si Jun Zi Tang (Four Gentlemen Decoction) and Jian Pi Wan (Spleen Strengthening Pills), which enhance physical constitution and immune function.

Types of Common Cold

Heat-Damp Cold: Common in humid and hot seasons like rainy periods. Symptoms include nasal congestion, yellow-green nasal discharge, sore throat, headache, fever, sweating, and a heavy feeling in the body. Treatment focuses on removing dampness and clearing heat with light foods and herbs like Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San (Agastache Powder) and Long Dan Xie Gan Tang (Gentiana Decoction).

Damp-Cold Cold: Occurs in sudden temperature drops or high humidity environments. Symptoms include body aches, dizziness, cough with white sticky phlegm, cold sensation, and low body temperature. Treatment involves dispersing cold and removing dampness using warming foods and herbs like Gui Zhi Tang and Shen Ling Bai Zhu San (Ginseng and Poria Powder).

Damp-Heat Cold: Occurs in high temperature and humidity environments. Symptoms include sore throat, thirst, fever, sweating, cough with yellow and sticky phlegm, and a heavy feeling in the body. Treatment focuses on clearing heat and removing dampness with herbs like Qing Re Jie Du Tang and Ba Zheng San (Eight Treasure Powder).

Heat-Dry Cold: Occurs in dry or hot seasons. Symptoms include dry cough, little phlegm, dry throat, cracked lips, nasal congestion, and fever. Treatment focuses on nourishing Yin and moistening dryness with herbal teas like Sha Shen Mai Dong Tang (Adenophora and Ophiopogon Decoction) and Chuan Bei Pi Pa Gao (Fritillaria and Loquat Syrup).

Flu Transmission Routes

Droplet Transmission: The flu virus spreads through droplets produced by coughing, sneezing, or talking. These droplets can be inhaled by others, causing infection. This is the primary transmission method for the flu.

Direct Contact: Touching objects or surfaces contaminated with the flu virus (such as door handles or phones) and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes can lead to infection. Maintaining good personal hygiene is crucial.

Airborne Transmission: In poorly ventilated or enclosed spaces, flu virus particles can become airborne and be inhaled by others. This type of transmission is more common in high flu seasons and poorly ventilated environments.

3 Must Buy flu relief products from Bai Zi Gui

Livcool Capsules

Formulated with natural Andrographis herb, these capsules effectively relieve cough, cold, sore throat, and mouth sores. The key ingredient, Andrographolide, provides strong heat-clearing, detoxifying, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving effects, making it highly effective against bacterial and viral infections. Traditionally used for clearing heat, detoxifying, reducing inflammation, and alleviating wind-heat cold and cough.

Food Art Souperkid Nosewonder

A no-cook solution designed to relieve cold symptoms and nasal sensitivity. Contains effective ingredients like Tiger Milk Ganoderma, Fritillaria, Lily, Fig, and Jujube, which soothe airway sensitivity, ease flu and asthma symptoms, and boost immune function. Individually packaged herbal powder requires just 1-2 hours in a thermos to be ready for consumption. Suitable for vegetarians and has a pleasant taste that both adults and children will love!

TruHerbs Tiger Milk Mushroom Sclerotia

Specially formulated to protect respiratory health! Made from patented Ligno TM02®  Tiger Milk Mushroom Sclerotia, each 300mg capsule contains 100% pure Tiger Milk Sclerotia, providing five times the potency of standard food-grade products.

When to See a Doctor

While the flu usually resolves on its own, seek medical attention if:

Symptoms are Severe: Persistent high fever, difficulty breathing, chest pain, or severe coughing require immediate medical attention to prevent worsening of the condition.

High-Risk Groups: Pregnant women, the elderly, young children, and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of serious complications and should seek medical care promptly.

Symptoms Persist: If symptoms last more than a week without improvement or worsen, seek medical evaluation to rule out other serious conditions.

Complications Arise: Severe cough, rapid breathing, or increased heart rate may indicate complications such as pneumonia or other serious illnesses. TCM doctors will use a combination of Chinese and Western methods for treatment if severe symptoms are present.

Quick Recovery Diet

In addition to medication, specific dietary choices can help speed up recovery from the flu:

High-Quality Protein: Essential for cell repair and immune function. Foods such as dairy products, eggs, soybeans, chicken, and deep-sea fish are beneficial.

Liquid Diet: For flu with gastrointestinal discomfort, consuming liquids like fish porridge and chicken soup can reduce gastrointestinal burden and aid recovery.

Avoid Irritants: Spicy foods and garlic may aggravate throat discomfort and should be avoided.

Drink Warm Water: Adequate hydration promotes respiratory blood circulation, helps expel phlegm, and alleviates throat discomfort.

How to Prevent the Flu

Get Vaccinated: Annual flu vaccination is the most effective way to prevent flu. It reduces the risk of infection and can lessen the severity of symptoms if infected.

Maintain Good Personal Hygiene: Wash hands frequently, use alcohol-based hand sanitizers, and avoid touching the face.

Avoid Contact with Infected Individuals: Minimize close contact with those infected, especially during peak flu seasons.

Adopt Healthy Lifestyle Habits: Balanced diet, adequate sleep, and regular exercise enhance immunity.

In TCM prevention, drinking certain herbal teas is recommended:

Ginger and Jujube Tea: 5 slices of ginger and 10 jujubes steeped in 300-500 ml hot water for 15-30 minutes.

Immune-Boosting Tea: 3g Astragalus, 3g Codonopsis, 3g Atractylodes, 2g Saposhnikovia, 3g Honeysuckle, and 2g Licorice steeped in 300-500 ml hot water for 15-30 minutes.

Common Questions and Answers

What is the difference between the flu and a common cold?

Flu symptoms are usually more severe and sudden, while common cold symptoms are milder and develop gradually. Flu often includes high fever, severe muscle aches, and extreme fatigue, while colds mainly cause runny nose, cough, and sore throat.

How effective is the flu vaccine?

The flu vaccine reduces the risk of infection by about 60%. Even if infected, symptoms are generally milder. Due to rapid virus mutations, annual vaccination is important.

What should I do if a family member has the flu?

Avoid close contact, wash hands frequently, use alcohol-based sanitizers, and disinfect frequently touched surfaces. Consider vaccination to enhance personal immunity.

Special considerations for children and the elderly?

These groups are at higher risk for complications like pneumonia. Vaccination and early medical care are crucial, along with adequate hydration and nutrition.

How long does it take to recover from the flu?

Flu symptoms usually last one to two weeks. Most people recover within a week, but fatigue and cough may persist longer. TCM advises continued care after symptom relief to prevent recurrence.

Summary

Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory illness with severe symptoms. Understanding its symptoms, transmission routes, prevention measures, and when to seek medical help is crucial. Baizi Cabinet's quality health products and TCM methods can help enhance immunity and treat the flu. Good hygiene practices, annual vaccination, and healthy habits are key to flu prevention. TCM emphasizes holistic treatment to boost self-healing capabilities and aid recovery.