It happens without warning. One minute you’re fine; the next, your joints ache, your head throbs, your skin becomes flushed and a five-step stroll across the room is a real challenge.
Odds are – especially if it’s any time between November and April – you have the flu.
Each year, millions of Americans get the flu, also known as influenza. And each year, about 36,000 die and more than 200,000 are hospitalized because of its complications.
“We see more patients with influenza between late December and early March,” says Russ Schroeder, RN, Director of Emergency Services at Saint Anthony’s Hospital. “Typical influenza illness includes fever, usually 100ºF to 103ºF in adults and often even higher in children, and respiratory symptoms, such as cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, as well as headache, muscle aches, and often extreme fatigue.”
Compared with most other viral respiratory infections, such as the common cold, influenza infection often causes a more severe illness. While sudden onset and severe symptoms most likely mean flu, not a cold, often it takes blood tests and tissue cultures to confirm influenza, according to Russ.
Flu often lasts a week, with common complications of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Rest and lots of fluid are key. “Whatever treatments are used, it takes time to recover,” he says. “Even after the symptoms have disappeared, a person could still be contagious and still needs rest.”
“We encourage individuals to be prepared as much as possible to protect themselves before influenza strikes,” Russ adds.
For a free “Facts about Influenza” brochure produced by the American Lung Association, call Saint Anthony’s Health Resource Center at 618/465-2264.