Everything about Flu - Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

The influenza virus causes the flu, a common respiratory disease. Common symptoms include runny or stuffy nose, fever, headaches, and body aches. If you have an underlying medical condition or are pregnant, you run the chance of experiencing serious problems. The best way to prevent contracting the flu is to get vaccinated yearly.

What causes the flu?

The influenza virus brings flu. The respiratory system becomes infected, which can result in pneumonia and other consequences. One of the primary explanations for recommending an annual vaccination program for people is that the virus is ever-evolving. The three types of influenza that afflict humans most frequently are A, B, and C. Influenza A and B symptoms are more severe and seasonal (most cases occur in the winter). Influenza C doesn't have severe symptoms and isn't seasonal; it affects around the same number of people annually.

Influenza A subtypes include bird flu and H1N1 ("swine flu").

What are the symptoms of the flu?

The symptoms of flu include:

Fever
Dry cough
Headache
Tiredness
Chills
Aching muscles
Limb or joint pain
Diarrhea or upset stomach
Sore throat
Runny or blocked nose
Sneezing
Loss of appetite

How is the flu transmitted?

Flu is spread through coughs and sneezes, which release infected saliva or nasal secretions into the air, and other people inhale them. People who come into contact with surfaces where the droplets have landed and subsequently touch their mouth, nose, or eyes can also contract the sickness. This is why washing your hands often or rubbing them with antiseptic gel throughout the winter flu season is crucial.

How to test for the flu?

Most people do not need to visit a doctor for flu symptoms. This is because most people are not in danger of developing a serious case of the flu.

Consult your doctor if you have the flu and are ill. If they contract the flu, people more susceptible to flu complications may also want to visit a healthcare provider.

After learning about your symptoms, a doctor can determine whether the flu is widespread in your case.

To identify the flu, a test is available. It's done by swabbing the throat or nose. The majority of the time, test results are readily available. The test can aid your doctor in making the best treatment recommendations.

How can I keep from getting the flu?

People may be able to transmit the virus to others up to seven days after developing symptoms and up to a day before those symptoms appear, making it impossible for them to determine whether they are doing so. Therefore, avoiding contact with those who are sick with the flu virus is very difficult. Of course, family members are always welcome to bring it inside. You can avoid contracting the sickness by routinely washing your hands, but this won't stop you from breathing in infectious airborne droplets. Immunization is the best defense against contracting the flu.

Why is getting the flu worse for older people?

People over 65 are more likely to have an underlying health condition. They may have a weaker immune system, which increases their chance of developing a serious illness from the flu and, ultimately, hospitalization and death. The flu vaccine is the best defense against illness and susceptible people.

Why does having the flu worsen due to underlying medical issues or pregnancy?

If you contract the flu, have an underlying medical condition, or are pregnant, you have a higher chance of developing a serious illness. As a result, you have a higher chance of being admitted to the hospital or, less frequently, critical care, which may be fatal.

If you have any concerns regarding this issue, check out our GP or visit Spire Pharmacy.

Read article >