The deadly symptoms of the swine flu are deceptive since they mimic symptoms experienced with other less deadly types of flu. The World Health Organization, or WHO, notes that swine flu is a common name for the H1N1 virus. In June 2009, the WHO declared swine flu a world pandemic. In August 2010, it declared the world pandemic over but warned that localized outbreaks are likely to continue. Swine flu is extremely contagious and can often appear to be an ordinary influenza virus at first.
Temperature
According to the National Health Service, the first deadly symptom of swine flu is a high temperature. The fever is typically higher than 100 degrees F. This is similar to the temperature experienced with all influenza infections. It should not be considered a sign of swine flu on its own.
Head Pain
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a significant symptom of swine flu is an intense headache. This often felt in the sinuses and the forehead. Head pain associated with swine flu is also reported in the base of the neck and the top of the skull. This pain is said to be both steady and throbbing.
Stomach Issues
According to the WHO, patients with swine flu suffer from significant stomach problems. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, lack of appetite and nausea. After a day or two there will be significant fluid loss and a reduction in weight. By the time these symptoms are experienced, patients should consult a doctor for a swine flu test. This is the only way to determine definitively whether the patient has the H1N1 virus.
Breathing Difficulty
A deadly symptom of the swine flu is severe difficulty breathing. The H1N1 virus causes violent coughing, intense congestion and constant nasal secretion. This is an immune response to the virus and can cause painful collateral tissue damage. Some swine flu patients require a ventilator to breathe and stay alive.
Exhaustion
Virtually all people diagnosed with swine flu report extreme exhaustion. Some are unable to stand or perform even the simplest physical tasks. The intense immune response to the H1N1 virus requires most of the body's energy reserves. It is very important for patients to get medical attention before they reach this point. Antiviral medication should be administered as soon as possible after swine flu is diagnosed. If the H1N1 virus is allowed to advance without treatment, the patient could die.
