With the change in weather, problems like fever, body ache, cough, sore throat and runny nose can become common. But it is not right to ignore it every time considering it normal. Such symptoms can also be related to influenza i.e. flu. The number of its patients is increasing rapidly in this August season. Viruses like Influenza H1N1 and H3N2 can cause flu-like illness during seasonal changes and its symptoms can sometimes be similar to those of the common cold. World Health Organization (WHO) According to WHO, influenza is a contagious respiratory infection, which can spread more when the weather changes. Symptoms like high fever, persistent cough and extreme weakness should not be ignored. Especially children, elderly, pregnant women and people suffering from serious illness need to be more careful about flu.
Difference between flu and common cold
It is a little difficult to understand the difference between flu and common cold because flu symptoms can also look like common cold. But one can try to understand these differences by paying attention to small things, like the symptoms of flu sometimes start suddenly. Symptoms like sudden high fever, dry cough, headache, sore throat, pain in muscles and joints and extreme fatigue may be felt. Whereas in common cold, symptoms like runny nose, sneezing and slight discomfort and burning sensation in the throat may appear before fever. However, it is not always possible to differentiate between flu and other viral infections based on symptoms alone. Therefore, if the symptoms are more severe and the fever is not reducing, consult a doctor immediately.
Don’t ignore these flu symptoms ignore
Some flu symptoms may seem normal, but if they persist or increase, they should not be taken lightly. Let us know about some of the main symptoms:
severe pain and weakness in the body– During flu, one may feel body ache, muscle ache and extreme fatigue. If weakness starts increasing, it is important to see a doctor without delay.
Severe sore throat and pain- Sore throat is one of the early symptoms of flu. If the throat pain is severe and there is difficulty in swallowing, contact a doctor.
Persistence of high fever-In flu, fever occurs suddenly with high chills along with high fever. If the fever persists or increases, it is better to consult a doctor.
respiratory distress- Difficulty breathing should not be considered a normal symptom of flu. If signs like shortness of breath, difficulty in breathing or chest pain appear, it is important to seek medical help immediately.
Excessive weakness or dizziness It is normal to feel tired during the illness, but if suddenly one feels extreme weakness, dizziness, fainting or the person is unable to do normal activities, then it should be taken seriously.
Mask and hand cleanliness are important to prevent flu
Some general precautions can be taken to prevent flu, such as wearing a mask. This can help reduce the risk of spreading infection. Other than this To prevent flu, maintain hand hygiene, cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and avoid getting too close to a sick person. If you have flu-like symptoms, rest and avoid crowded places to avoid spreading the infection to others. especially Young children, the elderly, pregnant women and people with serious health problems should take immediate precautions if they notice flu symptoms.
Don’t make the mistake of taking antibiotics yourself
Some people, as soon as they get fever, start taking antibiotics on their own without doctor’s advice, but this is not the right way for health. Be it an infection like flu or normal feverIn both cases, taking antibiotics on your own can be harmful. Apart from this, flu is a viral infection, hence antibiotics for its treatment do not affect the virus. Taking antibiotics without doctor’s advice can increase the risk of antibiotic resistance in the body. In severe cases of flu, doctors give antiviral medicines according to the patient’s condition. Therefore, give the patient only the medicines prescribed by the doctor.
Be alert about flu, but don’t panic
Pay attention to your and your family’s health during changing seasons. Other than this There is no need to panic when cases of flu arise, but it is important to be cautious about your health. If symptoms like fever, cough, sore throat, body ache and excessive fatigue appear, take adequate rest and do not allow dehydration in the body. To avoid spreading the infection, cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, maintain hand hygiene, and avoid contact with others when you are sick.
FAQ
What are the common symptoms of flu?
Flu can cause symptoms like high fever, cough, sore throat, headache, body ache and extreme fatigue.
Who should be more careful about flu?
Young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with serious health problems should take special precautions if they have flu symptoms.
What to do to avoid flu?
Maintain hand hygiene, cover your mouth when you cough and sneeze, keep distance from sick people and use a mask when necessary.