The influenza virus infects millions each year, and a single strain of the illness can affect a quarter of the world in as little as three months. Early diagnosis of influenza will lower the impact and shorten the duration of symptoms. Know what symptoms to look for and visit a doctor within 48 hours contracting the disease.
Symptoms
Sore throat, headache, coughing, sneezing, muscle ache, chills, runny nose, exhaustion and fever as high as 101ºF are the most common symptoms associated with the Influenza Virus. In addition, children may run fevers as high as 103 to 105 F and experience stomach problems such as nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. A health-care professional can often diagnose Influenza from the patient's symptoms alone, but the doctor may choose to conduct tests so that treatment will be more accurate.
Commercial Rapid Diagnostic Tests
There are many rapid diagnostic tests, most of which can be conducted within a doctor's office in less than 15 minutes. These tests are not 100 percent accurate, but will usually detect if influenza is present. For most people who have a history of generally good health, tests aren't necessary. Physicians suggest that patients with severe symptoms, a history of chronic illness, adults over 65 years old or children under 6 months of age undergo diagnostic tests. Health-care professionals may also use tests in a patient population to discover which strains of the Influenza virus are present in the community. Otherwise, doctors should use there judgment when treating patients. Rapid diagnostic tests allow doctors to determine prescription and treatment within one visit especially when the wrong diagnosis can be life-threatening.
The Doctor's Diagnosis
Many factors come in to play when a doctor makes a diagnosis on a patient, including the fact that rapid diagnostic testing could be wrong. The level of influenza activity within the community plays a big part in diagnosis, which is why statistical data on influenza outbreaks is so imperative. This is especially true for smaller communities such as schools and offices. The flu is contagious, and any interaction with infected individuals increases the chances of getting sick. Some patients are more susceptible to contract influenza due to a weakened immune system. For patients who are found to have influenza, treatment should begin immediately.
Treatment
Based on a patients symptoms and test results a doctor will allocate treatment. He will usually prescribe one of two antiviral medications, Relenza or Tamiflu, which directly attack the influenza infection. Over-the-counter medication may also be used to alleviate symptoms. Decongestants and antihistamines are most effective for soothing symptoms, but will not cure the flu like a prescription drug. In addition to medication, individuals with the influenza virus should get plenty of rest and drink a lot of liquids such as juices, water and soup. Influenza can be avoided altogether if an individual receives a flu shot each year before flu season (September to March).
Risks
Influenza infections which are not treated properly can lead to severe or even life-threatening complications. Viral pneumonia is caused by infections to the lungs. Symptoms of pneumonia include difficulty breathing; painful cough or chest pains from coughing; yellow, green, or bloody phlegm; or recurring fever. Bronchitis, resulting from influenza, is infections and inflammation of the trachea (windpipes) and the small and large bronchi (airways). Sinusitis infects and causes swelling in the sinuses in a similar fashion. These complications and the irritating symptoms resulting from the influenza virus can be less or avoided. Remember, the best way to prevent against the flu virus is to receive a yearly flu shot.
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