Brace Yourself for Flu Season: Warning Signs

From body aches to headaches to feeling low on energy, coming down with Flu is annoying. The influenza virus is dangerous, and if neglected for long, can be life-threatening too. Cold and flu season can be a nightmare for people who seem to catch everything that comes around. It is especially critical for pregnant women, older adults, and young children or people with a weaker immune system.  

Warning signs and symptoms of Flu

• Sore throat

Excessive coughing because of Flu can lead to a sore throat. In some cases, people also experience a swollen throat without a cough. Your throat may feel irritated or scratchy during the early stages of Flu. If you have a sore throat, you will feel a strange sensation when to swallow drinks or food. 

• Body aches and chills

One of the most common flu symptoms is body aches and chills. Many blame body aches on new workout or fatigue from work. However, they can manifest anywhere in the body, especially in legs, back, and head. Even before a fever develops, you can still experience chills and body aches, and that is the warning sign of Flu. 

• Cough

Influenza virus can cause chest tightness and pant with a cough. But a persistent cough is the early sign of the Flu. Some people might cough up thick mucus, but that is very rare in the early stages. Others experience dry cough for a prolonged time, especially during the night. 

• Excessive and sudden fatigue

Daily work pressure can make you feel tired and irritated, and that is normal. When you feel excessive fatigue without exerting your mind or body, then it can be a sign of Flu. It can be symptoms of common cold too, but usually more severe with Flu. Your regular activities get hinder with extreme weakness and tiredness. 

• Gastrointestinal problems

Some people also experience gastrointestinal issues when they get the influenza virus, which leads to cause diarrhea, stomach pain, vomiting, or nausea. 

If you notice any of these signs of Flu, you can use the following tips: 

• Eat Healthy

Having a non-oily and healthy diet will boost your immune system. We generally lose our appetite when we feel sick and eating small portions, but healthy ones will give strength to your body. 

• Make sure to drink lots of fluids

Fluids, especially hot beverages during the cold season, will help you keep warm. You can also drink low-sugar drinks and water, and make sure to avoid caffeine and alcohol.

• Cover your nose and mount when you sneeze or cough

Instead of sneezing in the open or your hands, use disposable tissue to cover your sneeze and cough. If you cough or sneeze without covering, then it can quickly spread through the air. 

• Wash your hands frequently

Make sure to wash your hands often to prevent the virus from spreading. 

In children and infants, you can look for trouble breathing and fever. If you experience a high temperature in infants with a rash or crying without tears, take your child to a primary care clinic in Houston immediately.