Influenza (patient information): Difference between revisions
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==What are the symptoms of Influenza?== | ==What are the symptoms of Influenza?== | ||
The [[flu]] usually begins abruptly, with a [[fever]] between 102 and 106 °F. (An adult typically has a lower [[fever]] than a child.) The [[fever]] usually lasts for a day or two, but can last 5 days. | |||
Other common symptoms include: | |||
*[[Chills]] | |||
*[[Dizziness]] | |||
*Flushed [[face]] | |||
*[[Headache]] | |||
*[[Nausea]] | |||
*[[Vomiting]] | |||
*[[Tiredness]] | |||
*[[Runny nose]] | |||
*[[Cough]] | |||
*[[Muscle aches]] | |||
Somewhere between day 2 and day 4 of the [[illness]], the "whole body" symptoms begin to subside, and [[respiratory]] symptoms begin to increase. | |||
The most prominent of the [[respiratory]] symptoms is usually a dry, hacking [[cough]]. Most people also develop a [[sore throat]] and [[headache]]. [[Runny nose]] ([[nasal]] discharge) and [[sneezing]] are common. | |||
These symptoms (except the [[cough]]) usually disappear within 4 - 7 days. Sometimes, the [[fever]] returns. The [[cough]] and [[tiredness]] usually last for weeks after the rest of the [[illness]] is over. | |||
Other symptoms may include: | |||
*[[Loss of appetite]] | |||
*[[Muscle aches]] and [[stiffness]] | |||
*Stuffy, [[congested]] [[nose]] | |||
*[[Sweating]] | |||
*Worsening of underlying [[illness]], such as [[asthma]] or [[heart failure]] | |||
==What causes Influenza?== | ==What causes Influenza?== | ||
Revision as of 14:35, 2 March 2010
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What is Influenza?
Influenza, or the flu, is a contagious infection of the nose, throat, and lungs caused by the influenza virus.
What are the symptoms of Influenza?
The flu usually begins abruptly, with a fever between 102 and 106 °F. (An adult typically has a lower fever than a child.) The fever usually lasts for a day or two, but can last 5 days.
Other common symptoms include:
Somewhere between day 2 and day 4 of the illness, the "whole body" symptoms begin to subside, and respiratory symptoms begin to increase.
The most prominent of the respiratory symptoms is usually a dry, hacking cough. Most people also develop a sore throat and headache. Runny nose (nasal discharge) and sneezing are common.
These symptoms (except the cough) usually disappear within 4 - 7 days. Sometimes, the fever returns. The cough and tiredness usually last for weeks after the rest of the illness is over.
Other symptoms may include:
- Loss of appetite
- Muscle aches and stiffness
- Stuffy, congested nose
- Sweating
- Worsening of underlying illness, such as asthma or heart failure
What causes Influenza?
Who is at risk for Influenza?
How do I know I have Influenza?
When to seek urgent medical care
Treatment options
Diseases with similar symptoms
Where to find medical care for Influenza
Directions to Hospitals Treating Influenza