The flu is a viral infection that attacks the respiratory system. According to the Mayo Clinic, in generally healthy individuals the flu may cause a few days of feeling ill but the chances of developing complications are not great. The University of Michigan Health System points out that during pregnancy, the immune system is affected and viral infections may persist longer, increasing the risk of complications.
Bacterial Pneumonia
Bacterial pneumonia is a potential complication that a pregnant woman can develop with the flu. Pneumonia in pregnancy is a serious health concern and can be fatal, according to the March of Dimes. It is one of the most common complications of the flu in adults. Symptoms of this type of pneumonia include a high fever, cough, shortness of breath, rapid breathing and chest pains, according to the National Institutes of Health.
Dehydration
A high body temperature, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea are all possible symptoms of the flu. Combined with feeling ill and not wanting to eat or drink, a pregnant woman can easily become dehydrated. This is a serious flu complication that may require hospital treatment, including intravenous administration of fluids.
Encephalitis
Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain. The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that several viruses cause this type of inflammation, including those that cause pneumonia. Encephalitis that occurs due to the flu is considered to be secondary encephalitis. This means that the virus that caused the pneumonia has spread to the brain and inflamed the nerve cells. The inflammation typically resolves quickly, but it can be life-threatening in some cases.
Bronchitis
Bronchitis develops when the lining of the bronchial tubes become inflamed. These tubes carry air to and from the lungs. The Mayo Clinic suggests that it commonly follows another respiratory infection, such as the flu. Symptoms of bronchitis include the production of mucus from the mouth that ranges in color from clear to gray, shortness of breath, wheezing, fatigue, fever, chills and chest discomfort.
