HealthNews Dozen: Flu Warning Signs

It is that time of year. With the weather turning colder, winds starting to blow, and even rain and snow falling in some areas of the country, the flu will be making its rounds. Flu germs are easily spread, not only in the workplace and schools, but in grocery stores and various social settings.

There are many things that people can do to prevent the spread of the flu, and the most important part of the process is awareness. By adhering to some tried and true methods of avoiding it, including obtaining the flu vaccine, many people will be able to avoid the flu and all of the aches and pains that come with it. But everyone will not be so lucky. If the germs happen to get through the barriers, there are symptoms to look for in order to catch it quickly, obtain medications from a doctor, and start treating the flu as soon as possible.

Some of the warning signs are fairly basic, as fever and chills are clearly the body’s way of saying that there are germs in its midst. There are some strains of the flu that do not have those symptoms, though, and grab hold of the body with the basic cough, sore throat, sinus problems, and body aches. But no matter how run-of-the-mill the warning signs may seem, the flu is harsh on the body and should be treated with antibiotics. If medication from a doctor is not an option, there are numerous over-the-counter drugs to help ease the symptoms and prompt a faster healing process.

However, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are more severe signs of the flu that should be given the proper attention. If there is difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, sudden dizziness, confusion in one’s thoughts, severe or persistent vomiting, or pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen, those are not typical signs of an ordinary flu. These can be signs that the body was not prepared for the flu or that a more severe strain is in play, and a doctor should be contacted immediately. In the case that the symptoms come on quickly and a doctor cannot be reached, one may want to consider the emergency room in order to get treated promptly and prevent the onset of something more severe like pneumonia.

Especially with children, signs of breathing difficulties and confusion should be dealt with immediately by contacting a doctor or visiting an emergency room. Other signs that should alert parents to a more severe form of the flu are a bluish tone to the child’s skin, the refusal of a child to drink enough fluids, irritability that takes the form of a child not wishing to be held, or flu-like symptoms that go away but come back with fever and in a worse form than before. Children can be more highly susceptible to emergency situations if their immune systems have not fully formed or they simply do not complain and inform parents of all of the symptoms before they get to a severe stage.

Anyone with other health complications, such as cancer, heart disease, blood disorders, lung difficulties, or diabetes should pay special attention to their flu symptoms and contact a doctor at their onset. The flu can do special harm to those with other conditions, as well as to the elderly, toddlers, or pregnant women, and no risks should be taken when treating colds or the flu in these cases.

In addition to any prescribed medication, the treatment of the flu should be taken seriously. Reducing contact with others, especially at work or school, is beneficial to the resting and recovery process and will prevent the spread of the disease to others in the community. An abundance of fluids, soothing foods, warmth, and rest are the best ways to treat the symptoms of the flu, and noticeable improvements should be seen in a matter of days.