Treating Unpleasant Dip Flu Symptoms and Preventing Recurrence

Understanding Dip Flu

Dip flu, sometimes referred to as snuff flu, is an illness that can occur in people who use smokeless tobacco products such as dip or snuff. The condition is caused by swallowing the tobacco juices instead of spitting them out. The nicotine and other chemicals in tobacco can cause irritation and inflammation of the throat and esophagus leading to symptoms similar to the flu.

Common Symptoms

The most common symptoms of dip flu include:

• Sore throat
• Coughing
• Congestion
• Headache
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Fatigue

In most cases, the symptoms are relatively mild and resolve within 24-48 hours if tobacco use is stopped. However in some cases, especially with long-term dip users, symptoms can be more severe and last longer.

What Causes It

The nicotine in smokeless tobacco products can cause vasoconstriction, which constricts blood vessels. This leads to less oxygen and nutrients getting to tissues and organs. Additionally, tobacco contains over 3,000 different chemicals many of which are irritants and toxins if swallowed.

When someone uses dip or other smokeless tobacco, they are supposed to spit out the juices instead of swallowing them. However, some juices are inevitably swallowed which introduces these toxins and irritants into the throat and digestive tract leading to irritation, inflammation, and flu-like illness.

Treating Dip Flu

The most effective treatment for dip flu is to immediately stop tobacco use to allow the throat and esophagus to heal and recover. Additionally, the following self-care techniques can help ease discomfort and promote healing.

Hydration

Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water and electrolyte-rich drinks can help flush toxins out of the system and thin out mucus secretions. This helps reduce coughing and congestion while keeping tissues moist.

Gargle Saltwater

Gargling with warm salty water can help soothe throat pain and flush irritants from the back of the throat. Dissolve 1 teaspoon sea salt or table salt in a glass of warm water. Gargle for 30 seconds to 1 minute then spit out.

Soothe With Honey

Honey has natural antimicrobial and soothing properties. Sipping a warm drink with honey such as tea can coat and soothe an inflamed throat. You can also create a honey lemon cough syrup by mixing lemon juice with honey.

Use Over-the-Counter Medications

Non-prescription medications can help manage certain dip flu symptoms. For example:

• Cough medicine with dexomethorphan for coughing
• Expectorants like guaifenesin to loosen mucus
• Decongestants like pseudoephedrine to relieve congestion
• Pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to ease sore throat and body aches
• Antacids like calcium carbonate for heartburn or nausea

Always follow dosage directions carefully and watch for side effects and interactions with any other medications you take.

Consider Prescription Medications

For more severe, persistent, or frequent cases of dip flu, your doctor may consider prescribing medications such as:

• Anti-nausea medication like ondansetron (Zofran) or promethazine (Phenergan)
• Steroid medication to reduce inflammation in the throat and esophagus
• Antibiotics if symptoms are caused or worsened by a bacterial infection

It's important to complete the full course as prescribed to fully treat any infection that may be present.

Preventing Future Episodes

The most reliable way to avoid getting dip flu again is to quit using all tobacco products including dip and chewing tobacco. This eliminates exposure to the toxins and chemicals that cause the irritating symptoms.

For heavy or long-term tobacco users, quitting can be very difficult and support may be needed through counseling, support groups, or medication. Talk to your doctor if you want help developing a successful quit plan.

If you wish to continue using dip or chewing tobacco, be diligent about spitting out the juices instead of swallowing them. Rinsing with an alcohol-free mouthwash after dipping may also help reduce some irritation. However, quitting altogether is the best way to prevent recurrences of unpleasant dip flu episodes.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.