SEASONAL FLU

SYMPTOMS

The seasonal flu may appear to be a common cold at first, with a stuffy nose, sore throat, and sneezing. However, colds typically grow slowly, whereas the flu usually appears suddenly. While a cold is unpleasant, the flu usually leaves you feeling much worse.

The following are typical flu symptoms:

• Fever
• Shortness of breath
• Muscle pain
• Persistent, dry cough
• Sweats and chills
• Stuffy, runny nose
• Weakness or tiredness
• Eye pain
• Headache
• Sore throat
• Diarrhea and vomiting

Contact your doctor immediately if you start noticing any of these symptoms.

DIAGNOSIS

Your physician will perform a physical exam, look for symptoms of influenza, and may request an influenza virus detection test. When the seasonal flu is prevalent, you may not be required to be checked for influenza. Your physician may make a diagnosis based on your signs and signs.

Your physician may recommend that you be checked for influenza in certain cases. To diagnose flu, he or she may utilize a variety of tests. In many health facilities and labs, PCR testing is becoming more prevalent.

TREATMENT

To cure the flu, you usually only need rest and a lot of fluids. However, if you have a serious infection or are at a high chance of complications, your physician may prescribe an antiviral medication to treat the flu. These medications may include:

• Zanamivir (Relenza)
• Oseltamivir (Tamiflu)
• Baloxavir (Xofluza) or peramivir (Rapivab)

These medications may help to reduce your disease by a day or two and inhibit severe complications.