Early Signs of the Flu
Influenza, also called the "flu", is a highly contagious respiratory infection that can strike suddenly. This virus affects your throat, nose, bronchial tubes and lungs. Older adults, children and people with weak immune systems are vulnerable to this virus, but anyone can get influenza. The flu can be mild to severe and at times can be fatal. It is important that you recognize the early signs and symptoms so that you can take an antiviral medication, such as Tamiflu, that may lessen the severity of the virus.The symptoms of influenza occur one to five days after exposure to the virus.
-
Flu Symptoms Mimic the Common Cold
-
Many people mistake the flu with the common cold because its symptoms are similar. A cold and a flu may begin the same way. You may notice a scratchy throat that continues for several days and doesn't improve. You may have a stuffy or runny nose and sneeze frequently. But, unlike a common cold, these symptoms don't just go away in a couple of days and instead become more severe. If you aren't sure whether you have the flu or a cold, check with your physician.
Loss of Energy
-
One of the clearest signs that you have the flu is a loss of energy. You may have extreme fatigue and feel as if your body has been filled with lead. You may feel exhausted walking just a few steps. The fatigue comes on suddenly. You may feel that you don't have the energy to complete simple everyday tasks.
-
Severe Aches
-
The flu is pure misery because your entire body will ache. You may have severe pain in your muscles and joints. You may have so much pain that it may hurt just to lie in bed. Some people describe this feeling as being hit by a large truck. You may feel pressure and pain around your sinus area, eyes and forehead.Your body may also feel really weak.
Change in Temperature
-
It is common to have a really high fever of 102 to 103 degrees. HealthFinder.gov warns that this fever can be even higher in children, with body temperatures sometimes hitting 104 degrees. Your body may alternate between extremes, from having chills to sweating profusely. It may feel impossible to warm up even when you have layers of blankets around you. It's difficult to get comfortable when you have the flu. You may look ill and have watery eyes and warm, flushed skin.
Symptoms in Children
-
Unlike adults, children may have gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. According to KidsHealth.org., your child may have chills, body aches and a dry cough. Shaking may accompany a high fever. Your child may cry and be irritable. Know that children are more likely to develop flu complications like pneumonia, ear infection or sinus infection. An infant with the flu may be lethargic and eat less than usual. You may notice that he looks sick. Children younger than age 2 are more likely to be hospitalized from complications.
-
