Influenza viruses are the source of the flu, commonly referred to as influenza. It can affect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs, leading to mild to severe symptoms. Understanding the causes and symptoms of the flu can help you recognize it early and seek proper treatment. This article will guide you through the key information about flu, including how it spreads, common signs to watch for, and ways to manage and prevent it.
Flu causes (Influenza)
The flu is a common illness caused by the influenza virus. It can bring symptoms like fever, body aches, cough, and a stuffy or runny nose. If you’re pregnant or have other health conditions, you’re at a higher risk for serious complications. The best way to protect yourself is by getting a flu shot every year. Stay healthy with tips from DigitalPakistani!
What is the flu causes (influenza)?
The flu is an illness caused by the influenza virus. It can lead to symptoms like headaches, body aches, sore throat, fever, and breathing problems. These symptoms can sometimes be severe. The flu is most common during the winter months, often spreading quickly and affecting many people at the same time.
When is flu causes season?
Flu season, when cases surge, typically runs from October to May in the Northern Hemisphere, including the U.S. It usually peaks between December and February.
How common is the flu causes?
The flu is one of the most common infections. Each flu season, around 20 to 40 million people in the U.S. catch it.
What is the difference between the flu and the common cold?
Colds and the flu can feel quite similar since both come with symptoms like a runny nose and cough. However, there are key differences. Cold symptoms tend to be mild and manageable, while flu symptoms can hit much harder and may lead to serious health issues. It’s also important to know that colds and the flu are caused by different viruses. Stay informed and protect your health with DigitalPakistani.
How do I know if I have the flu or COVID-19?
The flu and COVID-19 have similar symptoms, so the only way to know for sure which one you have is to get tested. Both can cause serious illness, but they’re caused by different viruses and need different treatments. Stay informed and healthy with DigitalPakistani!
What are the symptoms of the flu causes?
Flu symptoms can come on quickly and may include:
Fever
Chills
Cough
Headache
stuffy or runny nose Feeling very tired
Diarrhea or vomiting (usually in kids)
You might not have all of these symptoms.
What causes the flu?
The flu is caused by the influenza virus. The most common types that infect people are Influenza A, B, and C. Influenza A and B are seasonal, mostly spreading in the winter, and they cause more severe symptoms. Influenza C is less serious and isn’t seasonal, with cases staying steady throughout the year.
How does the flu spread?
The flu virus spreads when you come into contact with someone who is sick. Here are common ways you can catch it:
When someone coughs, sneezes, or talks, tiny droplets can get on your hands or into your nose or mouth, and the virus can reach your lungs.
By touching things like door knobs, desks, or phones that have the flu virus on them, then touching your face, nose, mouth, or eyes.
By touching someone with the flu and then touching your own face, nose, mouth, or eyes.
How is the flu diagnosed?
Your doctor can diagnose the flu by asking about your symptoms and testing a mucus sample from your nose. They will gently put a soft-tipped swab into your nose to check for the flu virus. You might get the results in a few minutes, or the sample may be sent to a lab, with results in a day or two.
How is the flu treated?
Doctors can treat the flu with antiviral medicines in certain cases. These medicines can help you feel better faster and reduce the risk of serious illness. Most people can recover from the flu without needing prescription medication, but doctors may prescribe antivirals if:
You’ve had symptoms for less than 48 hours. Antivirals work best if started early because the virus hasn’t spread much yet.
You have a health condition or are at high risk for severe illness. In this case, doctors might give you antivirals even after 48 hours.
Your symptoms are very serious, even if it’s been more than 48 hours since they started.
You live with or care for someone who is at high risk of serious flu complications.
How can I prevent the flu?
The best way to protect yourself from the flu is to get a flu shot every year. You can get it as a shot or a nasal spray. Since the flu virus changes over time, it’s important to get vaccinated each year.
Here are other ways to lower your risk:
Wash your hands often with soap and water. If that’s not possible, use hand sanitizer.
Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. Use your elbow or a tissue, not your hands.
Stay away from others if you or they are sick.
Wear a mask if you’re sick and need to be around people.
Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Don’t share food or utensils like forks, spoons, or cups with others.
What questions should I ask my doctor?
Here are some common questions to ask about managing your illness:
How should I take my medication?
What over-the-counter medicines can I take?
You can use pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce fever and aches. Decongestants and cough suppressants can also help with a stuffy nose and cough.
What can I do at home to feel better?
Get plenty of rest and stay hydrated by drinking water, tea, or broth. Use a humidifier or take a steamy shower to ease congestion, and try throat lozenges or warm saltwater gargles for a sore throat.
What serious symptoms should I watch for?
Watch for high fever, trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion, or symptoms that get worse instead of better. If you notice any of these, seek medical help right away.
When should I go to the emergency room?
When should I check back with you?
How long will it take to start feeling better?
These questions can help you better understand your care and recovery.
Is the stomach flu influenza?
No, gastroenteritis, often called the “stomach flu,” isn’t caused by the influenza virus and isn’t linked to the seasonal flu.
A Note from Cleveland Clinic
The flu is common, but it can sometimes lead to serious health issues. Getting your flu shot is the best way to stay healthy and protect your loved ones and community. If you’re pregnant or have other health conditions, talk to your doctor about ways to reduce your risk. While having the flu isn’t fun, most people recover with rest, some chicken soup, and a few good movies at home.