Influenza, or the flu, is a contagious respiratory disease that spreads from person to person in droplets from the nose and mouth. The virus causes inflammation of the airways and membranes in the lungs, which leads to a host of symptoms for those who are infected, such as runny nose, sore throat, fever and headache. Aside from these common symptoms, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also describes that those with influenza can have a cough; difficulty breathing; chest pain; muscle aches
Common Signs of the Flu
Many people may not even know if they have contracted the flu or not. Common signs of the flu to look for include fever, sneezing, coughing, sore throat and body aches. The symptoms of the flu are often similar to the common cold, but they’re more intense. They can include fever, achiness, sore throat, headache, and coughing. Some signs of the flu may also include nasal congestion and swollen glands.
Influenza Symptoms for Kids and Teens
Kids and teens are at a higher risk of getting the flu this season, which is why it’s important to know what signs they should be on the lookout for. Most of the time, influenza symptoms will present themselves in adults with a runny nose or cough. However, kids and teens might have different symptoms that adults typically wouldn’t experience. The most common signs for kids and teens to watch for include fever, body aches (particularly in the back), headache, muscle aches, sore throat, nausea, chills, fatigue, and dehydration.
What Else Can You Do?
Treatment for the flu is important. In addition to taking medication, the following habits can help you avoid the flu and reduce your risk of developing complications:
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
- Avoid touching your face, coughing into your sleeve, sneezing on others, or sharing cups and utensils
- Stay away from sick people
Flu symptoms are abundant and diverse, and the most common signs of the flu depend on your age, weight, physical activity level, frequency of travel, and overall health. Common symptoms include fever, headache, aches, fatigue, sore throat, dry cough, runny nose, sneezing; however there is no single set of criteria that must be met to make a diagnosis of the flu.
Tips for Treating a Cold or Flu Breeds
The symptoms of the flu are similar to those of a cold. A person can have both at the same time. Both conditions involve a fever, runny or stuffy nose, cough, and sore throat. Flu symptoms also include muscle aches, headaches and fatigue.
Food Recommendations
Symptoms that often accompany the flu include: a sore throat, fever, headache, joint and muscle aches, fatigue, cough and body aches. Being aware of the signs of the flu is important because it is a viral infection that could lead to more serious health problems if not treated.
Herbs to Take When Caring for Someone With the Flu
There are a few herbs that will help to prevent the flu and reduce the severity of symptoms. Chamomile is a great way to reduce inflammation and relieve stress, so it can be helpful for people experiencing flu symptoms. It also helps with digestion. You can also drink some cinnamon tea to help your body fight off
The flu is a very common illness that may have serious consequences if left untreated. Symptoms of the flu can vary, but they will usually persist for several days. The most common signs of the flu are fever, headache, muscle aches and fatigue. Other symptoms may include sore throat, cough, runny nose, vomiting or diarrhea.
