Recognizing Influenza Symptoms: A Comprehensive Guide

Influenza, or the flu, is one of the more common airborne viruses. This respiratory illness is highly contagious and can cause a wide range if symptoms, from coughing and sneezing to death in rare cases. The first stop in fighting a case of influence is to know how to recognize the symptoms.

Instructions

• 1

  Keep track of your temperature by using a thermometer. Check to make sure your body's temperature stays at 98.6 degrees F. A quickly rising fever can be one of the first symptoms of influenza exposure.

• 2

  Treat your sore throat with cough drops, but be aware that it might be a sign you've contracted influenza. When mucous from influenza sinus congestions drains, it can irritate your throat and lead to coughing fits.

• 3

  Take note of the frequency and consistency of your bowel movements. Diarrhea is a common symptom of influenza. While a over-the-counter medication may treat your diarrhea, it will do nothing to address the influenza symptoms.

• 4

  Consider cases of fatigue or exhaustion as possible signs that you've contracted influenza. People suffering from influenza will get tired after performing simple tasks and need to sleep throughout the day.

• 5

  Watch out for spells of vomiting. This can be a sign that your influenza is getting more severe. Vomiting occurs most frequently in very young or elderly patients.