Symptoms Of The Flu
There are quite a few symptoms of flu, and they depend on which strain you have been infected with. The stomach flu, for instance, will often render many of the same side effects as does the head or body flu, but our digestive systems are much more acutely affected when this happens. Those who pay very close attention to their everyday health and “feelings” will notice that they usually acquire a persistent headache as one of the first symptoms of flu, and this tends to be followed up within hours or days by a spike in body temperature. As the fever spikes, usually above 100 degrees before it is of concern, the entire body will begin to ache, throb, and become extremely tired. This elevation in temperature is the body’s first and best attempt to kill the intruding bacteria or virus. Unfortunately, the flu is not intimidated by warmer temperatures.
Your next symptoms of flu may vary, but it is important to recognize the difference between a cold related cough and one associated with the flu. Eventually, over the course of your illness, your chest may begin to feel heavy and achy with drainage, but the flu cough is a very dry one. It is unproductive, whereas the cough accompanied by a cold is designed to move the mucus and drainage from the throat and chest. If yours is rattling and wet, you may not have the flu at all. If it is persistent, painful, and dry, you are probably hit with this unforgiving virus.
The symptoms of flu which follow next will most likely keep you down for at least three days, if not much longer. Some flu viruses hang on for over a week, and can bring on more serious illnesses such as dehydration and even pneumonia. Runny nose, chest pains, sore throat and acute body and head aches are sure to weigh in during your illness, and the best thing that you can do is to rest. Controlling your fever and relieving your congestion issues are good ideas, but there are often stomach troubles which may interfere with your ability to keep down and digest medications. Hydration is the key in any case, and plain, room temperature water taken down in tiny sips throughout the day is the best way of remaining stable. Hot and cold liquids can severely irritate and already queasy stomach.
It is not at all uncommon for your symptoms of flu to include acute muscle aches, or even sharp pangs. You will also undoubtedly feel the overwhelming urge to sleep, and you shouldn’t fight it. Try to spend your waking moments sipping on water and taking medications. Eating can be helpful, but you need to keep it simple and bland. Chicken noodle soup or broth are great, but try to refrain from those which are high in salt.