Symptoms of flu– The flu (influenza) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can range from mild to severe and sometimes lead to complications such as pneumonia. Below are the full details of flu symptoms:
Symptoms of flu
1. Common Flu Symptoms
Flu symptoms usually appear suddenly and can include:
A. General Symptoms
- Fever or chills – A high temperature (100°F–104°F or 37.8°C–40°C) that lasts for 3–4 days
- Fatigue (tiredness) – Can be extreme and last for weeks
- Body aches and muscle pain – Often severe, affecting arms, legs, and back
- Headache – Can be moderate to severe
B. Respiratory Symptoms
- Cough – Dry or productive (with mucus), lasting for weeks
- Sore throat – Irritated, scratchy, or painful throat
- Runny or stuffy nose – Common, but more frequent in children
C. Digestive Symptoms (Less Common, but Possible)
- Nausea or vomiting – More common in children than adults
- Diarrhea – Can occur, though it is more frequent in children
2. Flu vs. Common Cold
Although the flu and the common cold share some symptoms, the flu is generally more severe.
| Symptom | Flu | Common Cold |
|---|---|---|
| Onset | Sudden | Gradual |
| Fever | High (100°F–104°F) | Rare or low-grade |
| Fatigue | Severe | Mild |
| Body Aches | Severe | Mild |
| Cough | Common, dry | Mild to moderate |
| Sneezing | Sometimes | Common |
| Sore Throat | Sometimes | Common |
| Runny Nose | Sometimes | Common |
3. Flu Complications
Severe flu cases can lead to:
- Pneumonia (lung infection)
- Bronchitis
- Sinus infections
- Ear infections
- Worsening of chronic conditions (e.g., asthma, heart disease, diabetes)
4. Who is Most at Risk?
Certain groups are more vulnerable to severe flu complications:
- Young children (under 5 years, especially under 2 years)
- Elderly adults (65+ years)
- Pregnant women
- People with chronic medical conditions (e.g., asthma, diabetes, heart disease)
- Immunocompromised individuals
5. When to Seek Medical Help
Seek immediate medical attention if you or someone else experiences:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Persistent chest pain or pressure
- Severe dizziness or confusion
- Seizures
- Severe muscle pain or weakness
- Lips or face turning blue
- Fever above 103°F (39.4°C) that doesn’t subside
6. How Long Do Flu Symptoms Last?
- Mild to moderate cases: 5–7 days (though fatigue can persist for weeks)
- Severe cases: Can last longer and lead to hospitalization
Would you like information on flu prevention or treatment?
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