When the flu season arrives, defending yourself from these vicious viruses should be a top concern. Flu viruses are mainly spread through saliva drops when someone coughs or sneezes. This can occur through the air or by touching certain objects that someone else has touched. Identifying early signs of the flu not only helps avoid the spread of germs, but you might also be able to treat the infection before it gets bad.
Unexpected Or Excessive Exhaustion
There’s a big difference between being sleepy and feeling severe fatigue. Abrupt, excessive fatigue is one of the initial signs of the flu and is often a warning before other symptoms appear. While exhaustion is also a sign of the cold virus, it’s more extreme with the flu. If you notice abrupt, severe weakness and fatigue that interferes with your regular activities, your body might be getting ready to fight the flu.
Body Is Aching
Body aches and chills are other noteworthy distinctions between flu and cold symptoms. When you’re getting the flu virus, you might incorrectly attribute body aches to something totally different, such as a recent workout. Body aches can transpire anywhere in the body—particularly the legs and head.
Cough
A constant cough is indicative of an early viral infection, and it might be a warning sign of the flu. The flu virus can result in a cough together with wheezing and tension of the chest. While contracting the virus you may cough up phlegm, but this is uncommon in the primary stages of flu. If you have breathing problems, like asthma, you might need to address the cough with your practitioner to avoid further problems. Also phone a doctor if you notice you are coughing colored phlegm.
Sore Throat
Flu-related cough can usually result in a sore throat. A few viruses, however, can actually cause an inflamed throat without a cough. In the primary stages of flu, your throat might feel rough and irritated. You might also feel an odd sensation when you consume food or drinks. If your throat is sore or inflamed, it will possibly get worse as the virus develops. Soup, water or tea can help soothe sore throats.
Emergency Signs
The flu is a progressive infection, and its symptoms are likely to get worse before they get better. Not everybody reacts the same to viruses. Also, your general health can play a role in determining how severe your symptoms are. Symptoms that are considered as an emergency include:
- Pain on the chest
- Difficulty breathing
- Lips or skin turning blue
- Extreme dehydration
- Faintness and confusion
- Chronic fever