The H1N1 flu, also commonly known as swine flu, is an infection of the respiratory system that is similar to normal flu. It was categorized in the spring of 2009, and the World Health Organization declared a global pandemic of the disease. According to the Mayo Clinic, it is made up of genetic material from avian, swine and human influenza viruses. Only a specific medical test will determine if you have H1N1 or regular flu, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control.
Fever and Chills
Like most flu strains, H1N1 can produce such symptoms as fever and chills. Fever is characterized by bodily temperatures higher than normal. While the common standard human body temperature is 98.6 degrees F or 37 degrees C, that may not be your body temperature. Human bodies can have another norm, higher or lower. Fevers are considered dangerous, according to the Mayo Clinic, if your temperature reaches 103 degrees F or 39.4 degrees C or higher. For lower temperatures, you can treat a fever with such over-the-counter (OTC) drugs as Tylenol (generic: acetaminophen) and Motrin or Advil (generic: ibuprofen). Treating a non-serious fever, however, may prolong the illness, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Diarrhea and Vomiting
Both of these symptoms can cause dehydration along with the unpleasantness of the actions themselves. You may take medications to ease these symptoms. Such OTC drugs as Imodium (generic: loperamide hydrochloride) can ease diarrhea, and Emetrol, a combination of glucose, fructose and phosphoric acid, can help relieve nausea and vomiting. Both should be treated by replenishing fluids and salts.
Aches and Pains
Like the common strain of flu, H1N1 also may produce aches and pains throughout the body. These may include headaches. Common OTC medications such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen and naproxen sodium (Aleve) may ease these pains while the flu runs its course.
Other Symptoms
H1N1 flu also may cause such symptoms as a cough, a runny nose, nasal congestion and fatigue. While the first set of symptoms may be treated by common OTC medications, fatigue caused by the flu most commonly should be treated by rest.
