Symptoms
Symptoms usually start abruptly. They may include:
- Fever and chills
- Severe muscle aches
- Severe fatigue
- Headache
- Decreased appetite, other gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and vomiting
- Runny nose, nasal congestion
- Sneezing
- Watery eyes, conjunctivitis
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
You may start to feel better in 7-10 days, but you may still have a cough and feel tired.
Diagnosis
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Diagnosis of the flu is usually based on symptoms. It also hits communities. the doctor may anticipate more infections.
Samples of nasal secretions or a throat swab can be sent to a lab. This will confirm the diagnosis. Blood tests can be performed, but they take longer and are more expensive.
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
