Flu Symptoms
and Other Symptoms
Flu symptoms usually develop quickly. Many flu symptoms mimic other illnesses, and it can be difficult to diagnose influenza, with or without a doctor.
Pandemic flu
can present itself differently...If you've ever had a
common cold
, you know that the symptoms can develop gradually throughout the day. You start with a few sniffles and, as the day continues, you feel worse and worse, little by little.
Photo courtesy of Melissa Clark
Influenza, or flu, usually starts suddenly. Whether it is the seasonal flu that we see every year, or the swine flu, you can feel great one minute—and sick the next.
Stomach influenza symptoms
look a little different, but they can also come on suddenly, as well. The same is true for
symptoms of bird flu
for people in the countries that have been affected by bird flu and for H1N1 symptoms. And, of course, if you have children, you know that
symptoms of swine flu in children
can be very different from those in adults. Children have trouble knowing what is wrong, and they don't always know how to express their feelings or describe how they feel. So, with children we have to be especially observant of symptoms.
Photo courtesy of Judi Cox
So, how do you know if you really have influenza? Here are some things to keep in mind: - How fast did the symptoms appear?
- How extreme are they? For example, do you have a slight fever of 99.2 degrees F--or is your fever high, say, 103 degrees F?
- What are your symptoms?
- When did you first notice them?
- Have you been around someone who has been sick? What did they have?
- How long ago were you exposed to their illness?
Each illness has a slightly different set of symptoms, and it can be hard to distinguish between them. But, it is important to report accurately to your doctor, so that he or she can treat you accordingly. To get personal attention and a fast answer, you might want to consider a
doctors online advice
. Knowing which influenza symptoms you have can help your physician more easily determine which illness you have. You might also be interested in:
Didn't find what you were looking for? Try searching for it here:
Flu Symptoms to Flu Virus
Flu Symptoms to Pandemic Flu
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