7 Common flu symptoms you need to watch out for

Almost everyone in the world has had the flu or influenza at least once in their life. But usually before you really get sick, you will first experience a variety of symptoms of influenza. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of the flu early on can help you recover faster.

The signs and symptoms of influenza are most common

Flu or influenza is a viral infection that attacks the respiratory tract, especially the nose, throat and lungs. Even so, flu symptoms can also affect various other parts of the body.

Influenza is no longer classified as a deadly disease since the introduction of the flu vaccine. However, the flu that is not handled properly can still harm the health of the sufferer in the long run.

The symptoms of influenza may vary from person to person, depending on the type of flu and what causes the flu. According to the BetterHealth website, on the 8th day, the body will usually show signs of a cold going to heal, such as reducing the severity of existing symptoms.

Here are some of the most common flu signs and symptoms you need to be aware of.

1. Body aches

Your body often feels sore lately even though you haven't done anything? Or, you get tired easily, and get worse day by day? Be careful, this could be a symptom you want to catch a bad cold.

Signs and symptoms of flu usually come on suddenly and quickly, within 24-48 hours of being exposed to the flu virus. Body aches and muscle aches all over the body (aches) are one of the first symptoms of the flu to appear.

As soon as other symptoms of influenza begin to appear, the aches you will experience will get worse so that they can hamper your daily activities. Therefore, you should immediately rest if the body starts to feel achy and sore for no apparent reason. Especially if the people around you are already showing symptoms of the flu.

Get plenty of sleep and drink water can help the immune system fight the flu virus.

2. Fever

The next flu symptom is fever. Fever is the body's natural response to fighting inflammation due to infection. When you have a fever, it means that your body is being "attacked" by something, whether it be bacteria or a virus.

In some cases, flu symptoms can lead to a high fever up to 38º Celsius or more. Even so, not everyone will automatically catch a cold during the flu.

You can reduce fever with flu symptoms by taking paracetamol which can be purchased at pharmacies, drug stores, supermarkets, or even food stalls near your home without a doctor's prescription. This drug is safe for use by all people, both children, adults, and the elderly.

However, before using it, make sure you read the instructions for using the drug on the packaging label carefully. If you have a history of certain medical conditions, you should first consult a doctor to ensure its safety.

3. Cough

Don't underestimate a cough that doesn't stop. Coughing can indicate an attack of disease or a sign of a viral infection.

Cough due to influenza symptoms is usually accompanied by wheezing (wheezing) and chest tightness. You may also experience a cough with phlegm, although not always.

In order for your cough to get better quickly, you can take cough medicines that are sold freely in pharmacies. Don't forget, when coughing or sneezing, cover your mouth with a tissue or inner elbow to avoid spreading the infection to other people.

If necessary, use a mouth mask when you want to interact with other people. Remember, the flu is a very contagious disease. The flu virus spreads through the air when you talk, cough and sneeze.

4. Sore throat

Continuous coughing will irritate your throat and feel itchy. Even so, you may experience a sore throat without a cough.

If not treated immediately, this condition will make it difficult for you to swallow when eating and drinking. A sore throat tends to get worse as your flu gets worse.

Lozenges that are available over the counter can provide temporary relief from a sore throat due to the flu. Traditional methods such as gargling salt water and eating warm soup can also help relieve sore throats due to cold or influenza symptoms.

5. Body shivering

Shivering is actually the body's way of warming itself when exposed to cold air. However, you can get chills when you have the flu even though the ambient temperature is normal or even hot.

Chills due to influenza symptoms occur because of a fever that you are experiencing. In some cases, you may feel cold even before the fever appears. Sometimes, fever and chills are also accompanied by aches all over the body.

Although it can subside on its own, covering yourself with a thick blanket can help warm yourself faster.

You can also take cold medicines that contain pain relievers such as acetaminophen (paracetamol) or ibuprofen to reduce fever. However, make sure you are taking the medicine with the correct dosage. Follow all usage instructions listed on the packaging or prescription label. Do not double the dose of painkiller or take longer than the recommended dose.

6. Nasal congestion or runny nose

When you are sick with influenza, it is likely that your nose will also experience symptoms of stuffiness or even a runny nose. This condition is certainly uncomfortable because it makes it difficult for you to breathe freely. Nasal congestion due to flu is caused by inflammation and swelling of the lining of the nasal passages.

You can relieve nasal congestion caused by flu symptoms by taking decongestants. This drug is sold freely without a doctor's prescription. However, be careful because some decongestants can make you drowsy.

7. Headache

When influenza or the flu has started to get worse, the most recent symptom to appear is usually a headache. Especially if the flu causes you to have a fever.

Again, the main key is getting plenty of rest. Avoid doing physical activities that are very energy-wasting, and use your spare time to sleep.

You can try doing a light massage on the sore head using the index and thumb. Repeat the massage until the headache you experience subsides.

In addition, it is also important to drink lots of water. One of the signs of dehydration is a headache. Therefore, if the headache you experience is also accompanied by excessive thirst, dry mouth, weakness, and frequent urination, try to drink lots of water.

Flu symptoms in children are not much different from those of adults. Some of the symptoms that parents need to pay attention to are constant fussing for no reason, and decreased appetite. Flu symptoms that your little one experiences can last a week or even longer.

When should I see a doctor immediately?

The symptoms of influenza mentioned above generally get better within a few days or less than 2 weeks. However, if the symptoms persist for more than this time period, you should check with your doctor to avoid complications of the flu.

In addition, here are some symptoms that you should be aware of and need more attention: