Persons with influenza have some or all of these symptoms: fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue, diarrhea and vomiting. These symptoms may last one to two weeks. If you have been diagnosed with influenza, or strongly suspect that you have it, you should follow these recommendations:
Get plenty of rest.
Drink extra fluids. Warm fluids like tea with honey/lemon and soup may be soothing.
Gargle with a salt water solution, mouthwash, or use a throat spray if helpful.
Take acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve) to reduce fever and lessen headache and body ache.
Use decongestants (Sudafed), antihistamines (loratadine, diphenhydramine) and cough suppressants (dextromethorphan-DM) as directed to reduce symptoms.
Take a steamy shower or use a humidifier to relieve nasal congestion.
More information: Cold or Flu Information