There is no scientific evidence that mouthwash prevents flu, however many people seem to use it successfully to relieve symptoms and sore throats in particular. The common flu is caused by a virus, not a bacterium. Sometimes, however, a sore throat can be caused by a bacterium (for example, streptococcus) and in this case it is crucial to take an antibiotic right away. Rinsing your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash is a healthy habit worth including in your daily hygiene routine. Rinsing with mouthwash can also temporarily relieve some flu symptoms, such as a sore throat. If you don't have mouthwash at home, you can prevent or shorten the duration of flu symptoms by using a simple saline solution.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Rinse with Antiseptic Mouthwash
Step 1. Measure the manufacturer's recommended amount of mouthwash and pour it into a clean glass
Generally, the recommended dose is 4 teaspoons (20ml), but you need to read the directions for use on the bottle to make sure you are using the correct amount.
It is important to pour the mouthwash into a glass rather than bringing the bottle to your mouth, especially when you are sick. In addition to not knowing if you are taking the correct dose, any viruses or bacteria could transfer to the bottle and infect the people who will use the mouthwash after you
Step 2. Swirl the mouthwash inside your mouth for 30-60 seconds
Move it vigorously from cheek to cheek so that it reaches all parts of the mouth. Also do some gargle to disinfect your throat as well.
Step 3. Spit out the mouthwash
Be careful not to ingest it, as even in small doses it can cause nausea and dysentery. Taken in large quantities it can even be toxic.
If you or a member of your family accidentally swallow a large dose of mouthwash, call 112 or the Poison Control Center (081 747 2870) immediately and have the bottle handy
Step 4. Rinse twice a day or the number of times recommended on the label
Do not use the mouthwash more frequently than the manufacturer recommends. For most products, the recommended frequency is twice a day.
Step 5. Do not allow children under the age of 6 to use the mouthwash
Small children could easily accidentally ingest it and run serious health risks.
Method 2 of 2: Rinse with a saline solution
Step 1. Prepare a saline solution
Dissolve half a teaspoon (or ¾ of a teaspoon) of salt in 250 ml of hot water. Hot water will be able to dissolve the salt more easily and give more relief to the throat. You can test the temperature by pouring a few drops on the inside of your wrist to make sure it's not too hot for gargle.
Step 2. Swirl the saline solution in your mouth for 30-60 seconds (or up to 3 minutes)
It also disinfects your throat by doing some gargle. Salt water helps dissolve the mucus that afflicts the oral cavity and drains excess fluids present in the throat tissues that can cause inflammation.
Step 3. Spit out the saline and gargle loose mucus
Salt water has no side effects, so you won't run any risk if you accidentally ingest it. Nonetheless, it is best to spit it out along with the mucus dissolved by the salt to rid the body of any viruses or bacteria.
Step 4. Repeat the rinses according to your health status
If there is a lot of mucus accumulated in the throat, repeat the gargle with salt water until you are able to expel as much of it as possible. If not, gargle at least 3 times a day until symptoms subside.
Advice
Preparing a saline solution at home and using it as a mouthwash is cost effective, plus it allows you to fight sore throats very effectively
Warnings
- Be careful not to swallow the mouthwash you bought at the pharmacy or supermarket. If you or another person accidentally swallows a large amount, call 112 immediately.
- If symptoms persist or worsen, consult your doctor, particularly if you have chest pain, difficulty breathing, vomiting, cough, headache, persistent congestion, or if you have had a fever for more than a day or two.
