## Flu Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Attention
Common Flu Symptoms
The flu, or influenza, is a respiratory infection caused by the influenza virus. There are different strains of the virus. It usually starts suddenly and lasts for about 7-10 days.
Most people recover completely from the flu. However, certain individuals such as young children, the elderly, those with underlying health conditions, and people with weakened immune systems may experience complications. The flu can also lead to life-threatening complications.
Fever, headache, dry cough, sore throat, muscle and joint pain, and sometimes a runny nose are the typical symptoms associated with the flu.
Flu symptoms can be easily confused with the common cold. Both conditions share symptoms like sneezing, a runny nose, and a sore throat. However, cold symptoms tend to appear gradually, while flu symptoms come on suddenly.
Some less common flu symptoms include high fever, muscle aches, chills, and sweating. There may also be digestive symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea.
To differentiate between a cold and the flu, consider the rapid onset and severity of symptoms.
While most people with the flu recover fully, some may experience severe complications.
When to Go to the Hospital for the Flu
Typically, flu symptoms will disappear within 4-7 days. However, symptoms like a dry cough and fatigue can linger for several weeks and even become persistent.
Some possible flu complications include shortness of breath, chest pain, respiratory distress, and pneumonia. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
If you suspect you have the flu caused by viruses such as H5N1, H1N1, or H7N9, or if your symptoms worsen and you develop complications such as a higher fever, more severe cough, increased sore throat, severe headache and muscle pain, rapid breathing, chest pain or tightness, bloody sputum, neck pain or stiffness, etc., it is crucial to visit a hospital promptly for a doctor’s examination and appropriate treatment.
Certain individuals are at higher risk of developing flu complications:
– Young children, especially those under 12 months old;
– Women who are planning to become pregnant, are currently pregnant, or have recently given birth;
– Elderly individuals, particularly those over 65 years old and those with underlying health conditions;
– People living or working in community facilities such as nursing homes, military barracks, or hospitals.
The following groups are at higher risk of experiencing more severe complications from the flu:
– People with a compromised immune system;
– Individuals with a body mass index (BMI) over 40;
– Those with neurological disorders or other conditions affecting cognition;
– People with chronic conditions such as heart disease, liver disease, kidney disease, diabetes, or asthma;
– Individuals who have had a stroke;
– People under 20 years of age who are on long-term aspirin therapy.
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