What You Should Know About Flu Symptoms

What You Should Know About Flu Symptoms

There are several different types of flu and most of them have several symptoms that are common between them.

The most common flu symptoms are chills, nausea, fever, vomiting, body aches, diarrhea and sweating. Influenzas enter into the human body through the eyes, nose and mouth and they spread easily when you touch these parts of your body.

The ones that start before the flu gets full blown are usually the chills and body aches. However, sometimes these could be signs of other viruses, as well. When somebody has the influenza, they can get high temperatures in the 100s. If your temperature reaches to 104 degrees or higher, immediate medical treatment is needed as this could cost your life.

When to Worry About Flu Symptoms

Flu symptoms generally only last for a day or two but if they last for more days than that or they get progressively worse, then it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

For the very young, the very elderly or someone who has a weak immune system, it is advisable to visit the doctor in the early stages itself when the symptoms first make their appearance. Do not wait till they worsen. The flu can wear down people who are already worn down or weak and can, if continued or prolonged, lead to more serious complications such as pneumonia. If you exhibit any flu symptoms for a prolonged time or have any pre-existing medical illnesses that may have run your system down, you should go to your family physician or the emergency room sooner than later.

In fact, your life may depend upon it. Approximately 40,000 people die each year in America alone of the influenza virus and 200,000 people are hospitalized with the flu each year. This should be a primary concern for those who may be run down with the flu.

Even if you are relatively healthy but have symptoms of chills, high fever over 104, body aches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or the like for more than three – four days, you should get to the doctors or Emergency Room as this could lead to other complications or prolonged illness

Complications of Flu Symptoms

Flu symptoms can appear suddenly or gradually, but the average flu lasts a day. There are certain forms of the flu that can lead to more serious sicknesses and sometimes even death. If they are left untreated, they can cause serious complications such as pneumonia.