Symptoms And Treatments For The Common Flu

There are many different symptoms for the common flu including a fever of 102 degrees or higher that lasts for three to four days, a sudden and severe headache, mild to severe muscle aches, weakness or a tired feeling that can last for more than two weeks, exhaustion, a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, coughing, sore throat and vomiting or diarrhea (both of these are more common in children and babies). There are also some symptoms that may require immediate emergency care. For children, these include fever with a rash, lack of thirst, extreme lethargy or lack of interaction, bluish skin tone, rapid or troubled breathing and an irritability that causes the child to not want to be held. For adults, these severe symptoms include shortness of breath or troubled breathing, pressure or pain in the chest, dizziness or vertigo, confusion and persistent vomiting. If you or your child or baby experience any of these symptoms, call your physician or go to an emergency room immediately. As soon as you arrive, let the receptionist know that you are experiencing flu-like symptoms. The nurses may require you or the affected person to wear a mask or sit in separate quarters to prevent the spread of the flu.

The flu spreads either through drops from sneezing or coughing or from contact with an object that has been touched by somebody that has the flu. Unfortunately, the flu can begin to spread even before the affected person realizes he/she has the flu and it can be spread up to seven days after the sickness begins. To prevent the flu, sign up to have a flu shot each and every year. Those in high risk categories, like babies, children, the elderly and those with health conditions should make sure they receive the flu shot yearly. Always cover your mouth when sneezing or coughing, steer clear from those with the flu, do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth and wash your hands frequently.

If you do get the flu, do not go to school or work. This will prevent the flu spreading as well as allow you to get much-needed rest. As soon as you start getting symptoms of the flu, see your doctor. He may prescribe an antiviral medication that will help make the flu symptoms less severe. Also be sure to drink plenty of liquids and avoid the use of cigarettes and alcohol.