Commonly confused with the cold, flu, or influenza, it is an easily spread viral infection that appears suddenly and manifests itself with intense symptoms, among which fever, headache, or body aches stand out. Unlike the cold, its symptoms are more intense and lasting, presenting less respiratory discomfort but more significant general discomfort. Although it can occur at any time of the year, it is during winter or the rainy season when it is most frequent. If you want to know everything about this condition in FastlyHealwe, explain the causes, symptoms, and treatment of the flu.
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How is the flu spread?
The flu is produced by a highly contagious virus that usually manifests itself in an epidemic, affecting many people in the same society. It is more common during the cold months in which our immune system may be a little more weakened. The spread of the flu occurs when the virus travels through the infected saliva droplets that go into the air through sneezing or coughing, which is why covering our mouths when we are sick and we cough or sneeze helps prevent its spread.
This condition is much more common in certain people and can severely affect:
- Children under four years old.
- People over 65 years of age.
- Those who have a weakened immune system due to a chronic disease or treatment.
- Pregnant women.
Flu symptoms
The flu symptoms begin suddenly and with great intensity, differing from the cold mainly by the presence of fever and muscle aches and a lesser absence of sneezing or congestion.
This condition manifests itself with:
- Fever over 39ºC.
- Body pain and general malaise.
- Headache.
- I am shaking chills.
- Apathy and lack of appetite.
- New symptoms may appear once the fever subsides, such as a dry cough, sore throat, or runny nose.
Flu treatment
The rest is critical for recovery from the flu; the most severe symptoms usually disappear the day after tomorrow. However, the patient can continue coughing or feeling weak for 1 or 2 weeks.
Over-the-counter antipyretics such as paracetamol or acetaminophen or pain relievers such as ibuprofen can be taken to reduce fever, headache, and body aches. In no case is the intake of antibiotics recommended unless there is a complication that causes infection; if so, the doctor will prescribe the most appropriate treatment.
Care when we have the flu
When we have the flu, it is important to rest properly and take a few days off in the case of having a fever because our body needs to recover to return to our daily activities. It is also recommended:
- Drink plenty of fluids to ensure hydration and prevent fever from wreaking havoc.
- Hot drinks and broths can be comforting and enjoyable for patients with this condition, as can lukewarm baths or showers, which can help reduce fever.
- Proper bundling is essential to prevent the chills from causing more discomfort than you already feel.
- It is recommended to avoid alcohol and smoking, as these habits could make symptoms worse.
You should go to your doctor if …
It is advisable to consult a doctor when :
- The fever persists or does not go down after two days.
- Respiratory complications occur.
- Flu symptoms do not go away despite care.
- The patient recovers from the symptoms, but after a few days, he relapses again with significant discomfort.
- Symptoms such as dehydration, very long sleep, or confusion occur.
- In the case of children under two years of age, it is always recommended to consult a doctor.
This article is merely informative, at FastlyHeal .com we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any type of diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any type of condition or discomfort.
If you want to read more articles similar to Flu: contagion, symptoms and treatment , we recommend that you enter our Lung and respiratory tract category.
I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.