The Most Common Signs and Symptoms of The Flu

While the best way to deal with the Flu is to try and prevent it altogether, sometimes the sickness can present itself regardless.

Flu season happens every year during the cold, winter months, and it is essential to be able to properly recognize the most common signs and symptoms of the flu to prevent suffering from the more severe symptoms of the flu.

Signs and Symptoms of The Flu

Without treatment, the most common signs and symptoms of the flu can progress into more concerning symptoms, such as a severe fever, vomiting and dehydration.

By noticing the following signs and symptoms of the flu, however, you can ensure the infection does not worsen or last longer than what is necessary.

Nasal congestion

Influenza attacks the respiratory system. Subsequently, the first signs and symptoms of the flu that are likely to be noticed affect the respiratory system. Most commonly, there is likely to be nasal congestion along with the flu.

Nasal congestion - which is most notably marked by a stuffy nose - can be a symptom of various illnesses and conditions, so it is not entirely indicative of the flu.

However, anytime nasal congestion exists during flu season, especially if it exists alongside other common signs and symptoms of the flu, it is encouraged to seek treatment for the flu, particularly treatment administered by a medical professional.

A persistent cough

Another one of the most common signs and symptoms of the flu is a persistent cough. A cough usually occurs while there is an infection, such as the common cold or flu. In most cases, a cough that results from influenza is dry and may be somewhat painful.

In the event other common signs and symptoms of the flu exist alongside a persistent cough, it is important to be tested for the flu and receiver proper, prompt treatment.

While a cough itself may not be particularly challenging to treat, it is a sign of a more significant issue that can worsen if proper care is not administered.

Fatigue

If there is a high level of fatigue that exists with other flu-like symptoms, then it is a pretty good indicator that the illness is more than likely the flu, instead of a common cold or sinus infection.

Most respiratory illnesses lead to nasal congestion and some form of a cough, but severe fatigue and weakness, which can lead one to sleep for a good portion of each day, strongly indicates that the illness is due to the influenza virus.

Fever

The easiest way to distinguish the flu from other forms of respiratory illnesses is to determine whether or not a high temperature is present.

If a fever is present during flu season and other common signs and symptoms of the flu exist along with the fever, then there is a very high likelihood that the flu is the cause.

In the event one or more of the common signs and symptoms of the flu exist together, it is highly encouraged to seek medical assistance for diagnosis and treatment.

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