Influenza, or flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus that infects the nose, throat, and lungs. Each year, millions of Americans get sick with the flu, sometimes it causes mild illness, but it can also be serious especially with younger and older people, and people with existing health conditions. Log on to www.doralhw.org for a consultation.

SYMPTOMS

Symptoms of the flu can come on suddenly. People who are sick with the flu often feel some or all these symptoms and may include:

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle and body pain
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

CAUSES

The flu is caused by a virus that spreads from person to person. When someone is infected with the flu they cough, sneeze, or talk and spray tiny droplets of saliva, and these lands in the nose or mouth of the people nearby. Or sometimes, when a person touches a surface or object that has a flu virus on it, and touches their mouth and nose, they may get infected with the flu virus too.

Some people with flu may also develop other complications. These complications can be mild or severe, they can include:

• Bronchitis
• Ear infection
• Sinus infection
• Pneumonia

The flu can also make other chronic illnesses worse, such as people with asthma.

TREATMENT

Usually, a person with flu can get better on their own. They just need nothing more than rest and plenty of fluids. But if you have severe infection or are at higher risk of complication, the doctor can prescribe you an antiviral drug.

If you come down with the flu, drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. You should also get more sleep to help your immune system fight the infection. You can also take over-the-counter drugs to combat the body pains and muscle pain associated with influenza.

To help control the spread of influenza, you are advised to stay at home while you are down with it. Avoid being around other people especially with infants, children, older people, and people with low immune system.

Always ask your primary care doctor before taking any form of medication. Your doctors may prescribe antibiotics if he/she suspects that it is more than just a viral infection. Never self-medicate and follow your doctor’s advice, especially if you are not sure of your condition.

If you are experiencing severe symptoms of seasonal flu, then come to us to get professional help. Our infectious disease doctors make sure your condition gets diagnosed and treated properly. So that you can get better as soon as possible. For more information or to make an appointment, call us to get a consultation. We provide excellent and comprehensive care for infectious diseases. For more info, visit us at Doral Health & Wellness or call us on +1(347) 384-5690.