It’s official that the influenza virus is widespread this season. Please note that influenza A (H3N2), influenza A (H1N1) and influenza B viruses are components of the vaccination available this year.
Here are symptoms of the flu (taken from flu.gov):
Symptoms
All types of flu have similar symptoms. Although the flu and common cold have similar symptoms, the flu tends to be more severe.
- Flu symptoms include a fever, body aches, tiredness, and cough.
- Your health care provider can give you a test to determine whether or not you have the flu.
What are the symptoms of the flu?
Flu symptoms include:
- A 100oF or higher fever or feeling feverish (not everyone with the flu has a fever)
- A cough and/or sore throat
- A runny or stuffy nose
- Headaches and/or body aches
- Chills
- Fatigue
- Nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea (most common in children)
Do I have the flu or a cold?
The flu and the common cold have similar symptoms. It can be difficult to tell the difference between them. Your health care provider can give you a test within the first few days of your illness to determine whether or not you have the flu.
In general, the flu is worse than the common cold. Symptoms such as fever, body aches, tiredness, and cough are more common and intense with the flu. People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose.
When should I seek emergency medical attention?
Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Purple or blue discoloration of the lips
- Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
- Sudden dizziness
- Confusion
- Severe or persistent vomiting
- Seizures
- Flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with fever and worse cough
READ MORE ABOUT TREATMENT FOR THE FLU HERE: http://www.flu.gov/symptoms-treatment/treatment/index.html
Key points:
*Stay home if you believe that you have the classic symptoms symptoms above. Antibiotics will not be helpful.
*Get plenty of rest and fluids.
*See the link above for certain over-the-counter medications which may help your symptoms.
*Antivirals work best if started within the first 2 days of getting sick. Call the office if you would like to be considered for this.
*Sometimes bacterial infections can complicate a flu so contact us to be seen for prolonged symptoms or if you get better then worse.