Can drinking more water help prevent influenza A?
Mar 09, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ren Yi
Introduction
Drinking more water can help fight against influenza A to some extent by replenishing fluids, promoting metabolism and detoxification, and assisting in relieving respiratory symptoms. However, drinking water alone cannot completely cure influenza A. Therefore, after diagnosis, it is necessary to combine other treatment methods, such as bed rest and increased nutrition. Medication may be required when symptoms are severe.
Generally speaking, "swine flu" refers to influenza A. Drinking more water can help fight against influenza A to some extent, but it cannot fully cure it. If discomfort occurs, medical attention is needed. The detailed explanation is as follows:
After infection with influenza A, patients may experience excessive fluid loss due to fever, which can lead to water and electrolyte imbalance. Drinking more water helps replenish body fluids, reduce fluid loss, and prevent water and electrolyte imbalance. Additionally, increased water intake can promote metabolism, aid in toxin elimination, and help relieve respiratory symptoms. Therefore, drinking more water can be somewhat beneficial in fighting influenza A.
However, the treatment of influenza A cannot rely solely on drinking water, and increased water intake alone cannot cure influenza A. Thus, timely combination with other treatment methods is necessary after diagnosis, such as bed rest, environmental improvements, and enhanced nutrition. When symptoms are severe, medications such as oseltamivir phosphate capsules, Lianhua Qingwen capsules, and zanamivir inhalation powder should be used according to medical advice.
It should be noted that when drinking water, attention should be paid to the water temperature, avoiding it being too hot or too cold. Also, attention should be paid to the timing of water intake, preferably avoiding drinking water right before bedtime to prevent disruption of sleep quality.
