What are the Symptoms of Flu?

Flu or influenza is a severe infection of the nose, throat, and lungs characterised by fever, headache, runny or stuffy nose, fatigue, and muscle ache, among other symptoms. Those at higher risk of developing severe complications from the flu include infants, the elderly, pregnant and new mothers, those with chronic health conditions, and obese individuals. Pregnant women are up to four times more likely to get infected and develop severe symptoms of flu. Patients with lung disease and diabetes are also at increased risk. 

Symptoms of Flu

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is an illness that can have a sudden onset of symptoms. Antiviral medication can effectively reduce flu-like symptoms if taken within a day or two of becoming sick. The symptoms of flu typically resemble a cold but can quickly escalate to dangerous levels. It is important to seek medical attention promptly when flu-like symptoms develop and receive timely treatment to prevent serious health risks. 

Flu-like symptoms can manifest as follows:

1. Sudden onset of high fever
2. Headache, muscle aches, and joint pain
3. Dry cough
4. Chills
5. Sore throat
6. Nasal congestion and runny nose
7. Fatigue

Most people recover from the flu within one to two weeks without professional medical help. Even so, certain individuals, especially older adults, may experience weakness for an extended period, even after other symptoms of flu have disappeared.

Children of school age and adolescents generally exhibit flu-like symptoms similar to adults. However, children tend to have higher temperatures, ranging from 103°F to 105°F, with vomitting and diarrhoea sometimes compouding the illness. Identifying flu symptoms in preschool children and infants can be challenging as their symptoms closely resemble sicknesses caused by other viruses.

If you experience the symptoms mentioned above and the flu is circulating in your area, you must contact a healthcare provider promptly.

If you exhibit emergency symptoms associated with the flu, seeking medical care right away is important. For adults, emergency symptoms of flu may include:

1. Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
2. Chest pain
3. Persistent dizziness
4. Seizures
5. Worsening of existing medical conditions
6. Severe weakness or muscle pain

Emergency flu-like symptoms in children can include:

1. Difficulty breathing
2. Pale, grey, or blue-coloured skin, lips, or nail beds (depending on skin colour)
3. Chest pain
4. Dehydration
5. Severe muscle pain
6. Seizures
7. Worsening of existing medical conditions

Understanding the symptoms associated with influenza is important for taking appropriate action and avoiding serious complications. While most people can manage the flu at home, those at risk of complications should seek medical care immediately. By recognising the emergency symptoms of flu, individuals can ensure timely treatment and recover as quickly as possible. Having health insurance can help ensure timely treatment and access to the necessary healthcare services, allowing for a quicker recovery.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.

Also Read:

• How do you prevent the common cold?
• Causes of Viral Fever
• How do you prevent Viral Fever?
• Causes of Swine Flu
• All You Need To Know About Swine Flu