Medicines for reducing the temperature should be taken only when the temperature reaches 38 degrees Celsius. Pharmacist Erik Novanský stated this in the TASR TV Zdravie program.
According to him, at lower temperatures, the body can cope with the disease quite effectively on its own. “When the temperature is slightly elevated, 37.2 or 37.3 degrees Celsius, people often take anti-inflammatory drugs or drugs to reduce the temperature, and this is often a problem, because it puts a strain on the digestive tract, stomach, kidneys and liver,” he explained.
The pharmacist reminded that, in addition to an elevated temperature, the most prominent symptoms of the flu include a dry cough, muscle pain, and a general feeling of fatigue and weakness. According to him, the pharmacy can distinguish the flu virus from an inflammatory disease using the CRP test. “With the CRP test, we can effectively select whether it is the flu or a bacterial disease,” he stated.
In this context, Novanský drew attention to prevention against the flu. “The advantage is that we have a vaccination against the flu. However, if we want to protect ourselves throughout the year, the basis is vitamins, vitamin complexes and minerals,” he specified. During the flu season, he recommended taking mainly vitamins C, D and zinc. “Vitamin D strengthens the immune system from the inside. Vitamin C is suitable not only as a prevention, but also during an ongoing disease,” he specified.
According to the pharmacist, it is best to take vitamins on their own, because some are taken before meals, some with meals and some after meals. At the same time, he pointed out that patients tend to take vitamins and minerals in higher quantities than recommended. “It’s very important to use them in the correct dosage, because that’s when they have the benefit. When it’s overused or underdosed, problems arise that they shouldn’t,” evaluated.
Novanský reminded that when suffering from the flu, one should not forget about a sufficient drinking regime in the form of teas, water or mineral water. “Drinks should not be very cold or very hot because they can irritate the throat,” concluded.
