Swine Flu Diagnosis

Symptoms of the H1N1 flu--also known as the swine flu--are easy to confuse with those of seasonal flu. If a person suspects he may have the H1N1 flu, it's important to get tested for the flu as quickly as possible to begin receiving antiviral treatments.

Similarities to Seasonal Flu

Swine and seasonal flu often share certain symptoms. These include fever, chills, sore throat, coughing, head or muscle aches and fatigue.

Differences in Swine and Seasonal Flu

One of the chief differences between swine and seasonal flu is the presence of stomach-related symptoms, such as nausea, diarrhea and vomiting, which are associated only with the swine flu.

Physician's Diagnosis

For those with flu symptoms, the only definitive way to diagnose the swine flu is by taking a mucus sample from the throat or from mucus that has been coughed up.

Laboratory Testing

This mucus sample is then sent to a laboratory, where it is tested for the swine flu virus strain. The H1N1 strain is a form of influenza type A, and several lab tests are able to quickly test for the presence of swine flu.

Treatment Methods

If the swine flu is diagnosed quickly enough, a physician may be able to prescribe an antiviral medication, such as Tamiflu, which helps to reduce the duration of the swine flu and its symptoms. Because this medicine must be taken within 48 hours of symptom onset, a fast swine flu diagnosis is necessary.

References

• Ask Dr. Oz
• U.S. News & World Report
• Health.MSN.com

Resources

• MedlinePlus
• HealthandSurvival.com

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