For most people, the flu is not pleasant, but it is generally mild and goes away after a few days with over counter flu meds. However, for some people, especially older individuals, young children, pregnant women and people with chronic health conditions, the flu can become serious and lead to other health issues.
Common flu symptoms include fever, cough, headache chills and body aches. If more serious signs are noticed, medical attention should be sought.
1. Wheezing
Experiencing a cough is common when you have the flu. However, the flu can be more serious for people who have asthma. The flu virus causes the airways to inflame, which results in difficulty breathing. If there is tightness in the chest as well as wheezing, this is more likely an asthma attack or other acute respiratory disease.
2. Thick or colored mucus
Secondary infections can occur in people who have the flu because the virus lowers the body’s immune response. Bronchitis is one of these infections. If you notice that you are coughing up mucus that is really thick, you may have bronchitis.
If the mucus is a different color than normal, such as yellow, red or green, you may have pneumonia. Along with the type of mucus, a medical provider may order a blood test, chest x-ray or both to determine which infection it is to provide proper treatment.
3. A prolonged fever and seizures
A fever is a very common symptom of the flu. However, it should go away within a few days. If it does not go away, even with brillia health non prescription flu medicine, this is often a sign of a more serious problem. If it lasts for seven days or more, medical attention is necessary.
If a fever is accompanied by seizures, this may indicate a problem in the brain. Encephalitis refers to inflamed brain tissue and immediate care is essential.
4. Pressure behind cheeks and eyes
Headaches are another common symptom of the flu. However, it should not cause pressure. If it feels like there is pressure in the cheek and eye area, this may be a sign of sinusitis, which is the inflammation of the sinus. If acute sinusitis is not treated, it can lead to chronic issues.
5. Pain in the chest
If you experience a fast heart rate and chest pain, you may have myocarditis. This refers to an inflamed heart wall, and it can be profoundly serious. Get to an ER right away if you experience this symptom.
Watch Out for Serious Flu Symptoms
Cases of the flu are more prevalent in the fall and winter. Most cases are relatively mild and can be managed with home remedies and over the counter medication. There are also best superfoods for cold & flu that can minimize symptoms and speed up recovery. Eating right and taking certain supplements also boost the immune system, which may prevent the flu altogether.
However, it is good to know that the flu can lead to more serious complications. Understanding what some of the signs are will help you get medical care when you need it.
