Influenza is an ever-changing viral respiratory infection that causes illnesses between October and April. The heaviest period of flu illnesses is in January and February, according to Immunize North Carolina. Although the flu in most people is short-lived, others may develop complications from the infection.
What is Influenza?
Influenza is a virus that affects the lungs, nose and throat. Influenza is called the flu for short, and it is different from the stomach bug also known as the "stomach flu." Influenza is often mistaken for the common cold, as they both seem to produce many of the same symptoms. However, common symptoms of influenza are fever over 100 F, chills and sweating, headache, dry cough, aching muscles, fatigue and weakness and nasal congestion. The flu is passed to people through droplets passed around from coughing, sneezing and talking. The germs can be picked up from inhaling them or touching them, then transferring them to the eye, nose or mouth. MayoClinic.com states that influenza has many strains, and the strains are constantly changing.
Complications
Young and healthy individuals don't usually have complications from influenza, but people with underlying health problems such as a weakened immune system, asthma, diabetes, HIV/AIDS or heart problems and people older than 65 and pregnant women are at higher risk of complications. Complications of influenza are pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infection or ear infection. Bronchitis is the inflammation of the air passageway to the lungs. Pneumonia is a lung infection that comes from inflammation due to bacterial or viral infections.
Signs of Complications
If complications occur as a result of influenza, a person may experience the symptoms of the newly developed condition in conjunction with the flu symptoms. Symptoms of bronchitis are chest discomfort, fatigue, shortness of breath and wheezing. Pneumonia symptoms are fever, cough, shaking/chills, chest pain, headache and muscle pain. Complications from pneumonia without treatment can result in death.
Prevention
The only way to prevent suffering from complications of influenza is to try and prevent catching the flu. Ways to prevent the spread of influenza include washing hands regularly, getting an annual flu shot and avoiding crowds. Influenza can sometimes be treated by taking plenty of fluids and resting. In some cases the use of antiviral medications such as oseltamivir or zanamivir may become necessary to prevent the virus from getting worse.
Warning
If shortness of breath, coughing, fever or body aches persist beyond a few days, or these symptoms seem to be getting worse, seek medical advice immediately.
