Im a 44 year old female. Ive had the flu back in January and Im now sick again with practically the same symptoms -- except that this time it is much worse! Back in Jan, when I asked my doctor if this could be H1N1, he said the current virus detected was mostly H3N1 (what is H3N1?). He maintained that there was no need for antibiotics. I followed his prescription and got better. But this month, on my second round of flu this season, the pressure in my head from congestion is unbearable and now Ive started a cough -- which makes the head and shoulders pain worse every time I cough! Im taking an anti-histamin and a mucolytic. My doctor maintains there is no need for antibiotics because this is a viral infection. I am now at my 7th day in bed. The last 2 days were the worse! When will I start getting better?
HELLO. I AM sorry to hear about your problem. H3N1 virus is just a new variant of H1N1 virus which is a swine flu virus spread to humans from pigs and birds. And since it's a viral infection your immune system will kill it within 7-10 days maximum, and you will start to feel better. Add acetaminophen 500 3-4 times daily for your pains. Take high protein foods, lots of fluids and rest. The important point to remember here that if your breathing becomes worse and the cough doesn't decrease by 2 weeks than I recommend you to get admitted in hospital for special care. Any way the flu in this season is not that strong and I have noticed a lot of patients getting better by 1-2 weeks. Hope this answers the question.