According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the flu is caused by the influenza virus and can cause illness and possibly death. The CDC estimates that over 200,000 people are hospitalized as a result of complications from the flu. Priority populations such as the elderly, children, pregnant women and those with chronic conditions, including diabetes, heart failure and asthma, have an increased chance of attaining flu related complications. Some common symptoms of flu include a high fever, sore throat and muscle or stomach aches. Complications of flu can lead to the development or exacerbation of other disorders.
Bacterial Pneumonia
According to National Library of Medicine, respiratory infections such as influenza increase the change of bacterial pneumonia. Pneumonia is caused by an inflammation of the lung due to the infection from the flu. Bacterial pneumonia can impair breathing and lead to a cough and fever. Treatment is often with an antibiotic based upon your age and current health. Nonacoholic fluids are important to ensure proper hydration.
Ear Infections
Ear infections are the most common illness in children, according to the National Library of Medicine. They usually occur when a virus such as the flu gets inside the ear, leading to infection. Ear infections often resolve on their own but may require the use of antibiotics if severe.
Sinus Infections
Also called sinusitis, sinus infections are an inflammation of the sinuses. Sinuses normally allow for mucus to drain and air to circulate. The flu can affect mucus buildup, leading to an increase in bacteria growth. The National Institute of Medicine recommends fluid intake to help thin the mucus.
Dehydration
According to the National Institute of Health, dehydration can be caused by inadequate fluid intake or the loss of fluids from vomiting and diarrhea. The flu may lead to symptoms such as body aches and paints, weakness, sore throat or headache and, therefore, might lead to a limiting of the amount of fluid consumed daily. When healthy as well as when diagnosed with the flu, adequate intake of fluids is important to help reduce the chance of becoming dehydrated and to increase management of symptoms and complications of the flu.
Worsening of Chronic Medical Conditions
According to the Centers for Disease Control, the flu can lead to an increase in management concerns of chronic conditions such as congestive heart failure, asthma or diabetes. The flu can increase the symptoms with these diseases and can lead to a greater chance of death as a result of a complications, according to the National Institute for Health.
Other Complications
Other complications of the flu according to The National Institute for Health are Reye's syndrome (often found in children and teenagers who take aspirin for flu fever or pain), convulsions from a fever and croup, a respiratory disease or swelling of the vocal cords found in children and infants.
