Flu Symptoms

Influenza, more commonly referred to as Flu, is a type of acute respiratory infection that results from the contact with the flu virus. The virus gains entry to the body through the various areas with mucous membranes such as the nose, mouth and eyes. The more common way of transmitting the virus to these areas is by hand contact. As such, in order to contain the flu and keep it from spreading, hand washing is extremely important. Flu viruses come in three forms, A, B and C. The classifications depend on how the virus affects humans with type A as the most bothersome.

Flu symptoms are usually hard to determine. This is because these symptoms are similar to that of a common cold. However, compared to a common cold, the symptoms of flu appear rather abruptly. When having the flu, the person will experience sudden onset of high fever, joint and muscle pain, headache, dry cough, and sore throat.

In children, flu symptoms include fever that is usually upwards to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. This fever is accompanied by muscle pain, chills, sore throat and dry cough. Usually, these symptoms will only last for up to four days. In some cases, fatigue and coughing may be alleviated in about two weeks after the fever has subsided. However for much younger children such as toddlers and infants, flu symptoms may include diarrhea and vomiting as well as abdominal pain. In younger children, poor appetite and high fever may also be indicative of flu.

In cases where it is difficult to recognize the flu symptoms, it might be useful to remember the acronym, FACTS. This stands for Fever, Aches, Chills, Tiredness, and Suddenness. If these symptoms are present, chances are, you are encountering a case of the flu.

Flu symptoms may also cause certain complications. Flu complications may include ear and sinus infections, dehydration as well as bacterial pneumonia.