December 15, 2025

First Signs of the Flu? Do This Right Away

When the first sign of the flu hits, it usually shows up fast. One minute you feel fine, and the next you notice that scratchy throat, sudden chills, or that heavy feeling behind your eyes. I know the temptation is to ignore it, push through your day, and hope it goes away, but that is usually the moment when you need to pay attention. Acting early can make a big difference in how miserable you feel and how long your symptoms last.

The first thing you should do is slow down. Your body needs energy to fight the virus, and rest helps you recover faster. This is not the time to power through your workout or tackle your entire to do list. Curl up with a blanket, get comfortable, and give yourself permission to take it easy. Some people try to keep going because they think resting is a sign of weakness, but rest is one of the strongest choices you can make when you are sick.

Hydration is your next priority. Sip water, herbal tea, or clear broth throughout the day. Staying hydrated helps thin mucus, eases congestion, and supports your immune system. You might not feel thirsty, but your body needs those fluids to function well. Avoid drinks that can dehydrate you such as alcohol or sugary sodas. They might sound tempting, but they will not help you heal. Pay attention to your temperature. A mild fever is your body’s way of fighting infection. If you feel achy or uncomfortable, you can take an over the counter medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen as directed. This can help you manage symptoms so you can rest. If your fever climbs higher, or lasts longer than a couple days, you should contact a healthcare professional.

Nutrition matters too. You might not feel like eating a full meal, and that is normal. Aim for simple nourishing foods such as oatmeal, soup, or toast. Do not force big meals if your appetite is low. Light, easy to digest foods are usually best in the early stages.

Now let’s talk about what not to do. Do not go to work or school and pretend everything is fine. You risk spreading germs to others, and you slow your own recovery. When you push yourself, you often end up sicker for longer. Stay home, rest, and give your body a chance to fight back.

Do not overload on supplements you have never used before. When you feel awful, it is tempting to grab anything that promises a quick fix. Stick with what you know, and follow evidence based guidance. Too many supplements at once can upset your stomachor interact with medications.

Finally, do not wait too long to seek help. If your breathing becomes difficult, your fever stays high, or your symptoms worsen instead of improving, reach out to a healthcare provider. Early treatment can prevent complications.

Start listening to your body at the first sign of the flu. Rest, hydrate, nourish gently, and avoid pushing yourself. These simple steps can help you get through flu season with a little more comfort and a lot more confidence.

Until next time -
Donny @ Gopher Update