Need help deciding which treatments are effective for the flu and swine flu? Wonder how you can manage flu and swine flu symptoms? Though flu treatments won't cure the flu or swine flu, there are flu treatments that can relieve common flu symptoms such as fever, aches, fatigue, and congestion. Some flu treatments may actually shorten the time you have flu symptoms. However, the FDA and manufacturers now say that over-the-counter cough and cold medicines should not be given to children under 4.

Which flu treatments can I take for swine flu?

If you have flu symptoms, and there has been a swine flu outbreak in your area, it’s a good idea to call your doctor. The doctor may prescribe an antiviral medication, such as Tamiflu or Relenza. Antiviral drugs treat swine flu by preventing the virus from reproducing inside your body, but they are most effective if you start them within two days of when your symptoms begin. These drugs can also help your symptoms improve faster and can prevent complications of swine flu.

There is no swine flu vaccine. The seasonal flu vaccine is not effective against swine flu.

Which flu treatments should I take for flu symptoms?

The flu treatment you should take depends on your symptoms. For example, if you have nasal or sinus congestion, then a decongestant can be helpful.

Oral decongestants come in many forms -- pills, tablets, capsules, or syrups. Decongestants are used to open the mucous membranes in the nose and help them to drain. However, decongestants should not be used for more than a few days because, if they are used too long and then stopped, they can cause rebound symptoms.

If you have a runny nose, postnasal drip, or itchy, watery eyes -- then an antihistamine may be helpful for your flu symptoms. Antihistamines block the effect of "histamine," and help relieve such annoying symptoms as sneezing, itching, congestion, and nasal discharge.

Over-the-counter antihistamines often make people drowsy, whereas decongestants can make people hyper or keep them awake. Antihistamines can make mucus thick, which can be a problem if you have lung disease such as COPD or asthma. Keep in mind that both decongestants and antihistamines can interact with other drugs you may be taking for conditions such as heart disease, and they may worsen some conditions. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about which flu treatment may be best for you.

Which flu treatment should I use for nasal congestion?

If you need immediate relief for swollen, congested nasal passages, you may get relief with an over-the-counter decongestant nasal spray such as oxymetazoline (Afrin) and phenylephrine (Neo-Synephrine). It is important to stop using decongestant nasal sprays after three to five days to avoid the development of rebound congestion or recurrent congestion.

Some doctors suggest using a saline spray instead of a medicated spray. Saline spray works more slowly but has no rebound effect. It may be used for extended periods of time without significant side effects.

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