Internal Medicine Specialist, Mumbai
•
20 years experience
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You correctly answered out of 5 questions
What are the symptoms of influenza?
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Symptoms of common flu include but are not limited to fevers and chills, cough and sore throat, weakness and aches in the body, headaches, irritation of the eyes and a stuffy or a runny nose. Diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea can also be noticeable symptoms if the influenza is quite severe, especially in children. Symptoms are usually not life-threatening, but they can be in people who have very weak immune systems, causing severe complications like pneumonia or bronchitis. A rapid diagnostic test can be life-saving in severe cases to identify the influenza strain.
How can influenza spread be prevented for people suffering from symptoms?
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It is highly recommended that if you develop symptoms of influenza, you should ensure you maintain basic hygiene practices to avoid spreading it to others. If people around you are suffering from influenza, you should recommend these practices to them as well. Seasonal vaccinations are available for people who are at-risk, and it is recommended that a flu jab be taken to prevent complications altogether. Talk to a medical professional to know if you need seasonal flu jabs.
Is influenza treatment possible through internal medicine?
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Influenza treatment is very much possible through internal medicine, and it is up to the patients who are suffering from symptoms to notify their physicians as soon as possible. The whole focus of influenza is based on alleviating all of the symptoms through treatment and to make the patient comfortable. Drinking enough fluids every day and getting enough rest helps sufficiently. Taking paracetamol and applying damp cloths to the forehead to bring down fever are advised.
Is it important to seek an internist within the first two days of noticing symptoms?
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It is essential that you seek a doctor within the first 48 hours of symptoms showing up, especially if you are in the higher risk group which includes the elderly, children, pregnant women and also anyone who has any sort of chronic medical condition. The severity of the symptoms can be drastically reduced through treatment which is most effective and quick if done within the first two days. Your doctor may prescribe antiviral medications such as Relenza or Tamiflu.
Are the symptoms of influenza and meningococcal meningitis similar?
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Both influenza and meningococcal meningitis have similar symptoms, and it is advised that you seek medical help as soon as possible to identify what you are suffering from. Meningococcal meningitis is significantly more threatening and isn't as moderate medical condition as influenza. It is easy to be confused between the two when it comes to symptoms, and professional help is recommended before you begin treatment. It is essential to seek professional help instead of trying to diagnose symptoms when it comes to influenza.
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