The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness and can lead to death in some cases.
Symptoms of the flu typically appear 1-4 days after exposure to the virus and can last for up to 7 days. Some people may have a fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headache, chills and/or fatigue. Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children.
If you think you may have the flu, it is important to see a doctor to get a diagnosis and treatment. Early treatment can help to shorten the duration of your illness and reduce the risk of complications.
Here are some tips for recognizing flu symptoms:
- Fever: A fever is one of the most common symptoms of the flu. A fever is when your body temperature is 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or higher.
- Cough: A cough is another common symptom of the flu. A cough can be dry, hacking, or productive.
- Sore throat: A sore throat is also a common symptom of the flu. A sore throat can be painful and make it difficult to swallow.
- Runny or stuffy nose: A runny or stuffy nose is another common symptom of the flu. A runny nose can produce clear or colored mucus.
- Muscle or body aches: Muscle or body aches are also common symptoms of the flu. These aches can be mild or severe and can affect any part of your body.
- Headache: A headache is a common symptom of the flu. A headache can be mild or severe and can cause pain in your head or face.
- Chills: Chills are a common symptom of the flu. Chills can cause your body to shake or tremble.
- Fatigue: Fatigue is a common symptom of the flu. Fatigue can make you feel tired and weak.
- Vomiting and diarrhea: Vomiting and diarrhea are less common symptoms of the flu. Vomiting and diarrhea can cause dehydration, which can be serious in some cases.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor to get a diagnosis and treatment. Early treatment can help to shorten the duration of your illness and reduce the risk of complications.
Here are some other things to keep in mind about flu symptoms:
- The symptoms of the flu can vary from person to person. Some people may have only mild symptoms, while others may have severe symptoms.
- The symptoms of the flu can sometimes be mistaken for other illnesses, such as a cold or the common cold.
- The flu can sometimes cause complications, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinus infections.
- The flu can be very serious for people who are at high risk of complications, such as young children, older adults, and people with chronic health conditions.
If you are concerned that you or someone you know may have the flu, it is important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Early treatment can help to shorten the duration of your illness and reduce the risk of complications.