HHealth
Tricky and dangerous influenza
December 16, 2017
In the autumn-winter period, when there is a rapid decrease in immunity, both in small children and adults, the number of upper respiratory tract infections, such as influenza, cold, tonsillitis, laryngotracheitis, bronchitis or pneumonia, increases significantly.
Complications of influenza
A diet poor in fruit and vegetables, limited physical activity in the open air, central heating, large temperature differences or staying in tight, dry, often overheated and crowded rooms is conducive to all viruses and bacteria responsible for the development of various inflammations and diseases, among which flu is the most common. Influenza, caused by type A, B and C viruses, transmitted mainly by droplets, is unfortunately quite often confused with a common cold. However, if misdiagnosed, untreated or "passed through", it can lead to serious and dangerous complications: bronchitis, pneumonia, sinusitis, middle ear inflammation, meningitis, cardiovascular failure, Guillian-Barre syndrome and many others. Complications usually occur in elderly people, immuno-compromised people, people with chronic cardiovascular, respiratory and kidney diseases, diabetics and small children under two years of age.
Characteristic symptoms of influenza
The incubation period for influenza usually lasts from two to six days after infection, and the most specific symptoms of the disease that appear in just a few hours are: high fever (usually above 39 degrees Celsius), unpleasant shivers, rhinitis, sore throat and dry cough. Characteristic symptoms are often accompanied by: general malaise, weakness, fatigue, tiredness, sleepiness, feeling of "breakage", lack of appetite and pain in muscles and joints. The appearance of the first worrying symptoms requires an immediate visit to a doctor who will make a proper diagnosis.
Treatment of flu
The main basis for influenza treatment is the alleviation of unpleasant symptoms, because despite the constant development of science and medicine, there is still no single, fully effective drug to combat the viruses responsible for the disease development. Doctors and specialists recommend lying in bed during the infection, avoiding excessive physical effort, consuming large amounts of warm fluids and taking antiviral, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic drugs as well as vitamin preparations rich in vitamins C and E. Also proven methods of rhinitis and coughing, such as the use of nasal drops, herbal inhalations, aromatherapy, air humidification, lime tea, milk with honey and many others, which will bring relief, are perfect. Patients may also reach for herbal mixtures with strengthening, sweating or anticoughing effects, available in any pharmacy without a prescription. The most effective method of influenza prevention is preventive vaccination against influenza, developed every year by the World Health Organisation.
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