But viruses rely on our cells to build viral proteins and often to copy their genetic information. There are some viruses that use their own proteins to carry out key steps in their life cycles. And these proteins can be good drug targets. For example, some viruses use their own proteins to copy their genetic information. By targeting these viral proteins, scientists have been able to develop some antiviral drugs that are super effective and highly specific. Acyclovir is a drug that stops replication in herpesviruses.
And several antiviral medications for treating HIV a type of retrovirus target specific viral proteins. Another group of antiviral drugs works by getting between the virus and the host cell receptor.
Some of these drugs are designed to mimic viral proteins or host cell receptors. Keep in mind that some treatments are also useful for prevention. Through mutation, viruses can quickly develop resistance to single drugs. One strategy for getting around this is combination therapy—taking multiple drugs at the same time. This is common for HIV management. Another advantage is that each drug can be given at a lower, less-toxic dose. To learn more about mutation in viruses, visit How Viruses Evolve.
They are proteins, made by specialized immune cells, that circulate in the blood and other fluids. The body makes many types of antibodies, each with a specific target. When an antibody attaches to a virus, it blocks the virus from getting into cells and flags it for destruction. Antibody treatments, including the two described below, are based on these natural molecules.
Convalescent plasma is blood serum from a person who was infected and got better. It works because a person who has recently recovered still has large numbers of antibodies in their blood that are specific to the virus. This approach has been in use for more than years, including during the influenza pandemic. A newer technology for delivering antibodies to a patient is monoclonal antibodies. These antibodies are made from cells grown in a lab. The cells are genetically engineered to make a specific type of antibody.
Most monoclonal antibodies are designed to fit with a specific virus. Others are more general and can be used with multiple types of infections. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. By using our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Cookie Settings. Learn why people trust wikiHow. Tips and Warnings. Related Articles. Article Summary. Method 1. Your body needs rest to fight off the virus.
When your body gets infected with a virus, it works overtime to keep functioning while also fighting off your infection. Because of this, it's important to rest.
Take a day or two off work or school and do low-energy activities like watching a movie or sleeping in bed. Be aware that antibiotics are not effective against viral infections and that, in general, you need to simply rest and allow your body to combat the virus. Method 2. Viral infections frequently lead to dehydration. When you become dehydrated, your symptoms will get worse; it's a vicious cycle that you should try to break out of by drinking plenty of liquids.
Drink water, tea, natural juice, and drinks with electrolytes to stay hydrated. Method 3. You don't want to get anyone else sick. Viruses are contagious, which means that you can actually pass the virus to others, making them sick as well.
Being around other people can also put you at risk of being exposed to other microorganisms like bacteria, which could make you more sick than you already are. Take at least two days off of work or school to avoid getting other people sick.
If you absolutely have to go into work or school, wear a mask to prevent others from becoming infected. The mask will prevent contagious particles from spreading through the air, especially if you are coughing or sneezing. Method 4. The humid air can help ease your congestion and cough. It's especially helpful to use a humidifier in your room at night as you try to fall asleep. This will help you to sleep better, and a better quality sleep equates to improved healing capacity.
Be sure that your humidifier is clean to prevent any air contamination such as with molds that could potentially worsen your symptoms rather than improve them. Method 5. Sometimes a virus will leave you suffering from a sore throat. If that happens, consider purchasing lozenges from your local pharmacy or drugstore. Not only does sucking on something help to ease throat pain, but many lozenges also contain local anesthetic to slightly numb your throat and to further reduce pain.
Gargling saltwater a quarter to half of a teaspoon of salt in one cup of water is recommended is another way to ease the pain of a sore throat. Method 6. Overall, zinc-containing products seem to be beneficial for reducing the duration of symptoms of the common cold in adults by about 1.
Zinc from supplements taken prophylactically does not seem to prevent the common cold. Regular use of higher doses can interfere with copper absorption. Nasal preparations have been associated with loss of smell. Foods to consider include oysters, red meat, poultry, seafood such as crab and lobsters, and fortified cereals.
Other foods containing lower levels of zinc include beans, nuts, whole grains, and dairy products. While there are dozens of reported health benefits of garlic, data is limited in its usefulness in upper respiratory infections. The data that does exist, however, supports that garlic has a role in decreasing frequency of URIs and shortening duration if a cold is experienced.
Many garlic products are available, but they are of varying quality. It is preferred to eat raw or lightly cooked crushed garlic. Let this sit in a lightly covered jar for two weeks. At first onset of URI symptoms, combine tbs of the honey with tbsp of lemon juice and one-half cup of warm water. The garlic cloves can be eaten, chopped in the tea, or used for cooking. Honey has been studied as an antitussive in children and found to be better than both no treatment and diphenhydramine, but not better than dextromethorphan.
Sleep and immune function seem to influence each other. Both sleep deprivation and acute illness such as a viral infection increase inflammatory markers that have been found to make us more tired. Studies have shown that sleep deprivation leads to decreased immune function, leading to increased frequency of infections and decreased response to immunizations such as the influenza vaccine.
In contrast, sleep strengthens the immune response; most immune cells response to challenges e. Too much sleep greater than 10 hours , however, has been associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Interpersonal relationships are an extremely important aspect of our overall well-being. Indeed, their quality can impact how well our immune systems can protect us from disease. Studies have found that more negative or hostile behaviors during discussions focused on conflict, marital disruption, or the chronic stress of caring for a relative with Alzheimers disease can suppress immune function.
There is some evidence to suggest that quality interpersonal relationships can be protective against these types of immune changes. Individuals with higher levels of spiritual well-being, including participation in formal religion, seem to have better cardiovascular, neuroendocrine, and immune function. For more information, refer to the Spirit and Soul Whole Health overview.
Mindfulness meditation has been studied in relation to immune function. This type of meditation is a practice that fosters an ability to take a step back and notice our reactions to external stimuli, giving people a chance to pause and choose how they will respond.
Some studies have shown regular mindfulness practices to lead to more robust antibody responses to the influenza vaccine. Resources and an introduction to a variety of centering practices including meditation and centering prayer can be found in the Meditation for Health and Happiness handout. Guided Imagery is a technique used by trained professionals to help patients relax and focus on images associated with personal issues they are confronting.
It may include interactive, objective guidance to encourage patients to find solutions to problems by exploring their existing inner resources. There has been some preliminary evidence that Guided Imagery in children that addresses stress and encourages relaxation may reduce the duration of symptoms due to upper respiratory tract URIs, including colds.
Andrographis Andrographis paniculata is native to Asia with a long history of use in Indian medicine. Individual studies and systematic reviews support its role in treatment of URIs. A specific product called Kan Jang, which combines andrographis with Siberian ginseng Eleutherococcus senticosus , also seems to be superior to placebo, especially when started within 72 hours of symptom onset. This herb is generally well tolerated. See, Play and Learn Images. Research Clinical Trials Journal Articles.
Resources Find an Expert. For You Children Patient Handouts. Start Here. Bacterial vs. Diagnosis and Tests.
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