The fast-approaching fall season signals the impending flu season. It is that time of the year again to be more vigilant to protect yourself and your loved ones from the serious illness. However, things are much different this time around, especially as the world is still battling the coronavirus.
COVID-19 may be getting more attention recently because it is new, but the common flu is known to be far more deadly. Estimates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show as much as 56 million flu cases, 740,000 hospitalizations, and 62,000 flu-related deaths.
In these sensitive times, it is best to be well-informed about the nature and symptoms of the flu to determine the best steps and the right time to call a doctor.
What are the Symptoms of Common Flu?
It takes one to four days after exposure for some or all of these symptoms to show:
Fever and Chills
Generally, a fever is anything that measures one degree above the normal body temperature, which is 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. People with the flu usually experience fevers as high as 103 or 104 degrees. This high temperature is also often accompanied by chills, red and watery eyes, and excessive weakness.
Dry Cough, Sore Throat, and Chest Discomfort
Coughing and post-nasal drip are common in people who have the flu. They may also experience shortness of breath or trouble in breathing. This is why this illness can be very problematic for people with existing disorders or illnesses in their respiratory systems like asthma and chronic bronchitis.
Runny Nose and Stuffiness
Since the influenza virus enters the body through the respiratory system, it can cause illnesses in that area such as congestion, sneezing, and runny nose. However, it is important to note that sneezing and stuffy nose are more common with a cold than with the flu.
Aches
The body’s natural response to foreign invasion is tissue and muscle inflammation. Because of this, a person with the flu typically experiences body aches and headaches. These aches can become more severe from dehydration, so it is best to let people drink as much liquid as possible when they’re sick.
Stomach Problems
Adults with seasonal flu do not usually have tummy troubles, but children may experience vomiting and diarrhea when they’re ill.
When Should You Call a Doctor For Your Flu Symptoms?
In most cases, you can recover from the flu by resting at home and drinking plenty of fluids. You can also take OTC medications such as pain relievers and decongestants to relieve the symptoms. You can also choose to take a multi-symptom cold and flu medication to feel better. Most healthy people get sick for around 7 to 10 days and then recover afterwards without complications.
However, if you have an underlying condition and start to experience chest pain, confusion, persistent vomiting, and a fever that doesn’t go away within a couple of days, you should get in touch with your doctor. Your immune system is significantly weaker during this time, so it’s best to seek medical attention promptly when in doubt so your condition doesn’t worsen.
Lastly, you should work on getting a flu shot if you haven’t yet. It not only treats the illness effectively but also protects you from contracting it again.
Conclusion
In these times, viruses and illnesses are rampant. It is also essential to note that the symptoms for COVID-19 and the flu overlap. Both can cause coughing, fever, breathing difficulties, as well as pneumonia and other more serious complications. Considering all of these, it is best to be vigilant at the onset of any symptom. Examine what you are feeling and allow yourself to rest.
Most importantly, stay at home and avoid physical contact with others while you are sick. Doing so helps you recover more quickly and protects the people you love from contracting the same illness.
Looking for more articles on how to stay healthy and minimize your risks of getting sick? Head to our website today to get your daily dose of helpful healthcare and medical news articles.
