The symptoms of the flu (influenza) can vary from person to person, but common symptoms include:
Core Symptoms (Often present and more severe):
- Fever: Often high (100°F/38°C or higher), but not always present, especially in older adults.
- Cough: Usually dry and persistent.
- Sore Throat: Can be mild to severe.
- Muscle or Body Aches: Often severe.
- Headache: Common and can be intense.
- Fatigue: Feeling very tired and weak.
Other Possible Symptoms:
- Runny or Stuffy Nose: More common with colds, but can occur with the flu.
- Sneezing: More common with colds, but can occur with the flu.
- Eye Pain Some people experience eye pain.
- Vomiting and Diarrhea: More common in children than adults.
Important Considerations:
- Sudden Onset: Flu symptoms tend to come on quickly and abruptly.
- Severity: Flu symptoms are generally more severe than cold symptoms.
- Duration: Flu symptoms typically last for 3-7 days, but fatigue can linger for weeks.
When to Seek Medical Attention:
It’s important to seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Difficulty Breathing or Shortness of Breath
- Persistent Chest Pain or Pressure
- Severe Abdominal Pain
- Sudden Dizziness or Confusion
- Severe Vomiting or Diarrhea
- Dehydration (not urinating enough)
- Seizures
- Worsening of Chronic Medical Conditions
- High Fever That Doesn’t Come Down With Medication
- In children: Fast breathing or trouble breathing, bluish skin color, not drinking enough fluids, not waking up or interacting, being so irritable that the child does not want to be held, flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough, fever with a rash.
Disclaimer: This information is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
FAQ about Flu Symptoms
What exactly is the flu?
The flu, or influenza, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It infects the nose, throat, and lungs.
How is the flu different from a common cold?
The flu is generally worse than a cold. Flu symptoms come on suddenly, while cold symptoms are usually gradual.
What are the most common symptoms of the flu?
Common symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue (tiredness), and sometimes vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children).
Does everyone with the flu have a fever?
Not necessarily. While a fever is a common symptom, some people with the flu, particularly older adults, might not develop a fever.
How long do flu symptoms typically last?
Flu symptoms typically last from 3 to 7 days. Some symptoms like fatigue and cough can linger for longer.
When should I see a doctor if I think I have the flu?
See a doctor if you have trouble breathing, chest pain, dizziness, confusion, severe vomiting, or if your symptoms don’t improve after a few days. Also, pregnant women, young children, older adults, and people with chronic conditions should seek medical attention.
Can the flu cause complications?
Yes, the flu can lead to complications like pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections, and ear infections. It can also worsen existing chronic conditions.
Is a stuffy nose always a sign of the flu?
No. A stuffy nose can be caused by a cold, allergies, or other respiratory issues. But, if it’s accompanied by other flu symptoms, it’s more likely you have the flu.
How can I tell if my symptoms are getting worse?
Signs that your symptoms are worsening include shortness of breath, severe pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen, sudden dizziness, confusion, persistent vomiting, and flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with fever and worse cough.
Are there any unique flu symptoms that children might experience?
Children may experience vomiting and diarrhea more often than adults. They may also refuse to eat and be unusually irritable.
Here’s your H2 FAQ section addressing common questions about the symptoms of flu:
Frequently Asked Questions About the Flu: Recognizing Symptoms
This section addresses ten of the most frequently asked questions about what are the symptoms of flu. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for early detection and prompt treatment, helping you recover faster and prevent spreading the virus to others. These answers offer a clear, simple guide to recognizing the signs of influenza.
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What is the first symptom of the flu to appear?
Influenza often begins with a sudden onset of symptoms. While the exact first symptom can vary from person to person, a common early sign is often a fever, sometimes accompanied by chills. This abrupt feeling of being unwell is a key indicator when asking yourself, what are the symptoms of flu. Another typical early symptom includes a sore throat.
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Is a runny nose a sign of the flu?
Yes, a runny nose can definitely be one of the symptoms of flu, although it’s more commonly associated with a common cold. When considering what are the symptoms of flu, remember that it can be a subtle difference. A runny nose linked to the flu is usually accompanied by other, more pronounced symptoms like fever, body aches, and fatigue.
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Does the flu always cause a fever?
While fever is a very common symptom of the flu, not everyone who has the flu will develop one. This is especially true for older adults, young children, and individuals with weakened immune systems. So, if you’re asking yourself what are the symptoms of flu, don’t rely solely on fever as the only indicator. The absence of fever doesn’t necessarily mean you don’t have the flu.
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Are body aches a typical flu symptom?
Absolutely! Body aches and muscle soreness are very common indicators of the flu. These aches are often widespread and can make even simple movements feel difficult. When evaluating what are the symptoms of flu, the severity of body aches can be a helpful differentiator between a cold and influenza.
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Can the flu cause a headache?
Yes, a headache is another frequently reported symptom of the flu. These headaches are often described as throbbing or intense and can be worsened by movement or light. A headache paired with other symptoms is important to note when identifying what are the symptoms of flu.
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Is fatigue a sign of the flu?
Definitely. Fatigue, or extreme tiredness and weakness, is a prominent symptom of the flu. This fatigue is often more severe than what you would experience with a common cold and can make it difficult to perform daily activities. Knowing how severe the fatigue is, is a huge step into knowing what are the symptoms of flu.
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Can the flu cause digestive issues like nausea or diarrhea?
Sometimes. While less common in adults, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea can occur as symptoms of the flu, especially in children. If you are experiencing these digestive symptoms alongside respiratory symptoms, it could suggest the flu. Knowing to watch out for this with children could help to identify what are the symptoms of flu.
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How long do flu symptoms typically last?
Flu symptoms typically last for about 3 to 7 days, although some symptoms, like fatigue and cough, can linger for a week or two longer. Monitoring the duration and intensity of your symptoms can help differentiate the flu from other respiratory illnesses. Understanding this helps to monitor and identify what are the symptoms of flu.
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Is a sore throat a common flu symptom?
Yes, a sore throat is a common symptom of the flu. It’s usually accompanied by other symptoms like fever, cough, and body aches. However, a sore throat alone is more likely to be caused by a cold or strep throat. It is important to identify other symptoms to know what are the symptoms of flu.
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If I have a cough, does that mean I definitely have the flu?
Not necessarily. While a cough is a common symptom of the flu, it can also be caused by a variety of other respiratory illnesses, including the common cold, bronchitis, or even allergies. To confirm if you have the flu, consider whether you have other symptoms like fever, body aches, fatigue, and a sore throat. Taking all of these symptoms into consideration will help you identify what are the symptoms of flu.