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Flu Care

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Flu Care Treatment in Koramangala, Bangalore

Influenza, commonly known as flu, is a viral infection that attacks our respiratory system. Although it is called the flu, it is not the same as stomach flu that causes diarrhea or vomiting. In most cases, the flu gets resolved on its own. But, in some situations, influenza or flu can lead to multiple complications. This needs to be addressed by your healthcare provider at the earliest.

What do we need to know about the flu?

Flu is common among:

  • Young children under the age of five
  • Infants under the age of 6 months
  • Pregnant women
  • People with weak immune systems
  • People who are obese or have a body mass index of 40 or higher

To get more details about flu care, you can search online for general medicine hospitals near me or general medicine doctors near me.

What are the common symptoms of influenza?

  • Fever
  • Soreness in muscles
  • Sweat and chills
  • Headache
  • Dry and persistent cough
  • Shortness of breath
  • Extreme fatigue
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Sore throat
  • Pain in the eyes
  • Aching of muscles

What causes flu or influenza?

Influenza is usually caused by virus particles that travel through the air in the form of droplets. They spread when someone infected sneezes or coughs. It can also spread through commonly shared items like telephone, door handles and utensils.

When do you need to see a doctor?

Most cases of influenza or flu can get better with time. However, if you are someone who is at a risk of multiple complications or has the following emergency signs, then you should visit your healthcare provider at the earliest.

  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest pain
  • Dizziness
  • Seizures
  • Severe fatigue or muscle pain

You can request an appointment at Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Koramangala, Bangalore.

Call 1860 500 2244 to book an appointment.

How can we prevent flu or influenza?

Every infant under the age of 6 months must get an annual vaccination against influenza. By getting vaccinated, the infant will be protected from serious complications.

It is important to get the flu vaccine especially in the times of COVID-19 because the symptoms are almost alike. The vaccination helps in reducing the severity of influenza in people.

What are the treatment options for flu or influenza?

The usual treatment of influenza requires nothing more than rest and intake of fluids. If you are, however, at the risk of developing serious complications, then your doctor prescribes some antiviral medications to treat the flu. The medications will help in curbing your infection within a day or two and help in the prevention of serious complications.

Over-the-counter antiviral medications: These include oseltamivir, zanamivir and peramivir. They are usually oral medications. However, zanamivir is usually available in an inhaling device and it should not be given to people with respiratory discomfort like asthma or any lung disease.

Home remedies: Intake of fluids should be raised. These also include soups and juices to prevent dehydration. Adequate rest must be taken.

Conclusion

It is important to take adequate rest and fluids and get the flu vaccine. If your healthcare provider prescribes any OTC or over-the-counter anti-viral medications then it is advised to take them timely. Influenza is a self-limiting illness and usually recovers on its own. If you are at risk of developing complications then you should reach out to your healthcare provider at the earliest if you develop any signs of discomfort.

What are some side effects of antiviral medications?

Usually, these medicines are very safe. However, in some people, they may induce the feeling of nausea and vomiting. These side effects are heavily reduced if the drugs are taken with food.

What are the complications associated with flu or influenza?

Flu or influenza is not a serious condition if you are young and healthy. It usually goes away in a week and does not leave behind any lasting effects. But children under the age of 5 and the elderly population with weakened immunity systems are more prone to developing complications which include:

  • Pneumonia
  • Acute bronchitis
  • Asthma flare-ups
  • Heart problems

What are the risk factors associated with flu or influenza?

There are multiple risk factors that may increase your chances of getting the flu.

  • Age - Seasonal influenza is more common in the elderly and infants below 6 months of age.
  • Weakened immune system - If you are undergoing any treatment for cancer or using steroids or have HIV/AIDS, then your immunity is weakened. This makes you more prone to developing the complications of influenza.
  • Chronic illness - If you suffer from chronic illnesses like asthma, diabetes or diseases affecting the nervous or cardiovascular system, then it may increase your chances of developing influenza complications.
  • Pregnancy - Pregnant women are more likely to develop flu and complications from it especially in their second and third trimesters.

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