From body aches to fevers and chills, the flu can bring on many uncomfortable symptoms. One of the most concerning aspects of the virus is its potential for causing other health complications — including what it could do to your lungs. To stay ahead of the coming flu season, here’s what you should know.
Can You Get Lung Damage from Flu Viruses?
“In most cases, the flu itself won’t cause lasting lung damage,” says Isabel Soles, PA-C, Clinical Director at YourTown Health. “But temporary lung damage can occur when the flu virus weakens your immune system, making it difficult to fight other bacteria, such as the one that causes pneumonia.” In this condition, lung tissue swells, and air sacs may fill with fluid.
Very rarely, people with certain preexisting conditions may experience increased inflammation from the flu, which can cause lung injuries such as damaged cells and airways. Though your body does require a small level of inflammation in order to eliminate viruses like the flu, researchers are currently working on a new drug to help prevent the damage that can come from too much of it. In the meantime, the best ways to stay safe are flu prevention and care.
How to Help Lungs with Flu Season Approaching
1. Get Your Flu Shot
Flu season begins in the fall, which means now is the time to get vaccinated. Everyone over the age of six months is advised to receive a new flu shot each year, since the formula is updated based on the most recent virus activity throughout the community.
2. Avoid Contact with Sick People
Usually, the flu spreads through moisture droplets in the air. When a person who has the flu coughs or sneezes, they expel droplets containing the virus, which you might inhale, or touch after it lands on a nearby surface. Since the virus can stay active for as long as 48 hours outside of your body, if you touch an exposed area with your hand, and then touch your face, the virus can enter your system. So try to avoid contact with people who are sick, and be sure to thoroughly clean tables, door handles, drawer knobs, counters, and other high-touch areas regularly.
3. Focus on Air Quality
Keeping the air you breathe regularly clean can reduce your risk of getting sick. Since we tend to spend most of our time indoors, focus on improving your indoor air quality at home:
- Minimize dust by vacuuming regularly and using a microfiber cloth on hard surfaces.
- Change filters for your heating and cooling systems and other appliances regularly.
- Reduce humidity to prevent mold development.
4. Support Your Immune System
There are several ways to give your immunity a boost, which may help you avoid or fight infections of any kind, especially the flu:
- Exercise regularly
- Eat a well-balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats
- Limit alcohol intake
- Avoid smoking
- Continue taking medication for preexisting lung conditions, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
5. Take Care if You Have the Flu
Usually, you won’t need to see a doctor for the flu, and can treat symptoms at home with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medication. If you’re at a higher risk of flu complications due to chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or asthma, you may be eligible for flu antiviral drugs, which could help alleviate symptoms and help your body heal. Check with your doctor if you’re unsure.
How Do I Know if the Flu Is Affecting My Lungs?
Most people won’t experience lasting effects from the flu. But if you have shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, or chest pain, be sure to get medical care right away. Only a healthcare provider can tell if you’ve developed pneumonia, which may require specialty care.
Think You Have the Flu? Visit YourTown Health’s QuickCare Clinic
If you’re feeling under the weather and need quick relief, turn to YourTown Health’s QuickCare Clinic. In addition to walk-in visits for illnesses and minor injuries, this clinic also offers quick and convenient flu vaccines. For questions, send us a message online or call 770-463-4644.
