Influenza, or the flu, refers to a viral infection that leads to such symptoms as a fever, headache, runny nose, dry cough and nasal congestion. It can also lead to a poor appetite, diarrhea, vomiting, muscle pain and fatigue. Influenza can be treated with getting plenty of rest and drinking enough fluids. Sometimes, antiviral medications, such as oseltamavir, may be prescribed. Left untreated, influenza can lead to a few complications.
Ear Infection
MedlinePlus says that otitis media is the most common type of ear infection in which infections can lead to the blockage of the eustachian tube, a structure in the ear that is supposed to drain any fluid in the ear. Symptoms of an acute ear infection include an earache or pain, diarrhea, vomiting, fullness of the ear, vomiting and hearing loss in the affected ear.
Treatment involves placing a warm cloth or bottle on the ears. Also, over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can be beneficial. Antibiotics, such as amoxicillin or clarithromycin, can be used to treat the ear infection if it is bacterial. Sometimes, a tube may need to be inserted into the affected ear to help allow the buildup of fluid to drain.
Chronic Sinusitus
Influenza can also lead to chronic sinusitis, an inflammation of the nasal passages. The Mayo Clinic says that chronic sinusitis remains for eight weeks or it is frequent. Symptoms of chronic sinusitus include drainage of yellow or green mucus-like substances down the throat or out the nose. This condition also leads to a cough, nasal congestion, a sore throat, bad breath and ear pain. Chronic sinusitis can also lead to fatigue, nausea and irritability.
Treatment involves using such medications as saline nasal spray, nasal corticosteroids, decongestants and over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen. Sinusitis is also treated with antibiotic drugs, such as amoxicillin. Sometimes, surgery can be performed to enlarge any sinus openings.
Bronchitis
Bronchitis refers to an inflammation of the airways in the lung, says MedlinePlus. Symptoms of bronchitis include wheezing, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, fever, fatigue and a cough productive of yellow or green mucus. Other bronchitis symptoms include ankle swelling, leg swelling, blue-colored lips (cyanosis) and frequent respiratory infections.
Antibiotic treatment is not needed to treat bronchitis. Rather, rest, drinking fluids, taking aspirin or acetaminophen and using a humidifier can be used to manage bronchitis symptoms. Bronchitis should resolve on its own within a week, says MedlinePlus.
Encephalitis
Encephalitis is a brain infection that causes confusion, clumsiness, fever, a headache, vomiting and a stiff neck. Encephalitis can also lead to confusion, irritability, muscle weakness, seizures, memory loss and paralysis. It can also lead to drowsiness and the inability to control the temper. Treatment includes taking such drugs as antiviral medications to destroy the virus, antibiotics to kill the bacteria, steroids to decrease any brain swelling and acetaminophen to relieve any headaches, says MedlinePlus.
