Identifying the flu : Key Symptoms to know
How to Identify the Flu: Key Symptoms to Know
Flu symptoms can range from mild to severe, sometimes leading to hospitalization or even death. Unlike the common cold, flu symptoms tend to appear suddenly. While flu symptoms resemble those of a cold, they are usually more severe and last longer. A high fever is more common with the flu and often appears before other symptoms.
Because flu, colds, and COVID-19 share similar symptoms, testing is necessary to confirm a diagnosis. If you or a loved one experience flu-like symptoms, get tested, stay home, and help stop the spread.
Signs and Symptoms
Flu symptoms may include:
- Sudden onset of a high fever (38°C or more) experiences
- Chills
- Aching behind the eyes
- Runny or blocked nose
- Sore throat
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Headache
- Weakness and lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Aching muscles and joints
Timeline of Symptoms
Days 1–3: Sudden onset of fever, headache, muscle pain, weakness, dry cough, sore throat, and sometimes a stuffy nose.
Day 4: Fever and muscle aches start to subside. Hoarseness, sore throat, and cough become more noticeable. Fatigue may persist.
Day 8: Symptoms begin to decrease, though cough and fatigue may last for one to two weeks or more.
Prevention – How to Avoid Catching and Spreading the Flu
Follow these tips to protect yourself and others from the flu and help stop the spread of germs:
- Avoid close contact: Keep your distance from sick individuals and stay home if you’re unwell.
- Stay home: If you feel unwell or have a confirmed infection, avoid work, school, and non-essential outings.
- Cover coughs and sneezes: Use a tissue or your elbow to prevent the spread of germs.
- Wash your hands: Regularly wash hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand rub.
- Avoid touching your face: Germs enter through the eyes, mouth, and nose.
- Maintain hygiene habits: Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces at home, work, and school.
- Boost your immune system: Consume immune-boosting vitamins and herbs like vitamin C, echinacea, garlic, and zinc.
- Get vaccinated: The flu vaccine helps train your immune system to fight the virus and reduces your risk of severe illness.
Managing Flu Symptoms with Medicines and Self-Care
Most flu cases can be managed at home with over-the-counter medications, such as:
- Decongestants
- Antihistamines
- Cough suppressants, expectorants & mucolytics
- Fever and pain relievers
- Medicated inhalations
- Lozenges & gargles
- Saline nose drops or spray
- Complementary medicines (vitamin C, echinacea, garlic, zinc)
Antibiotics are not effective against the flu, as influenza is a virus, not a bacterial infection. However, if a bacterial infection develops alongside the flu, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. Antiviral medications may also be recommended for high-risk individuals to reduce the severity and duration of illness.
Self-Management Tips
- Get plenty of rest to help your immune system fight the infection.
- Stay hydrated to loosen mucus and prevent dehydration.
- Inhale steam from showers, vaporizers, or baths to ease congestion.
- Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, especially those high in vitamin C.
- Avoid cigarette smoke, which can worsen symptoms.
- Ensure you have an adequate supply of medications and health essentials at home.
At Amcal, we are here to support you with online ordering and home delivery services so you can recover in comfort and avoid spreading the virus.
For more information about the flu, vaccinations, and how to stay well, speak to your Amcal pharmacist today.