5 Common Flu Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

5 Common Flu Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

Flu season is upon us once again, and as COVID-19 continues to spread, it’s more essential than ever to be able to distinguish between the two. Although flu-like symptoms are similar across both illnesses, it’s important to understand how to identify flu symptoms and why you mustn’t ignore them.

1. High Fever

The vast majority of flu cases involve an abrupt onset of high fever, usually over 101°F. If you’re experiencing a fever like this, accompanied by body aches, headaches, and a dry cough, it’s highly possible that you’ve contracted the flu virus.

2. Severe Fatigue

Everyone feels tired now and then, but if you’re feeling drained, and it’s not just because you’ve had a long day or skipped a few hours of sleep, then it could be a flu symptom. Flu can severely affect your energy levels, leaving you with weak limbs and making even the simplest of activities seem impossible to accomplish.

3. Sore Throat

Flu can cause a painful sore throat that can last for several days, accompanied by a dry cough. Although these symptoms may also occur with a cold, they can signal the onset of more severe symptoms that can make simple breathing difficult.

4. Persistent Headaches

Severe flu can cause significant headaches not easily relieved by standard pain medication. This symptom may occur alongside the flu’s high fever and can signal an onset of more severe complications such as secondary infections that can have deadly consequences if left untreated.

5. Shortness of Breath

If you’re experiencing severe shortness of breath, it’s essential to seek immediate medical assistance. Shortness of breath and difficulty breathing are rare but severe flu symptoms that can signal the onset of pneumonia or other related respiratory illnesses.

In conclusion, it’s essential to be aware of the common flu symptoms and take action if you start to experience any of them. Although the flu can be an unpleasant experience, most people recover fully with the correct diagnosis and treatment. Remember the adage ‘prevention is better than cure’ when it comes to flu, follow basic hygiene practices, and stay healthy.