First symptoms of influenza generally occurs suddenly. The symptoms usually start from 24 to 48 hours after the sufferer is exposed to the virus.
Currently, Jakarta is hit by heavy rain which causes floods. During this rainy season, people in Jakarta have the potential to suffer from various diseases, including influenza. Most people think influenza is the same as a common cold. The symptoms indeed look similar, but both conditions are caused by different types of viruses. The first symptoms of influenza are more severe and mostly attack suddenly, whereas the symptoms of a common cold tend to be mild and appear gradually.
What is influenza?
Influenza is a virus infection in the respiratory tract. It is easily transmitted to others, especially in the first 3-4 days after the sufferer is infected. Influenza happens suddenly and usually lasts for 7 to 10 days. Somehow it can just disappear by itself, but sometimes it is treated by using natural medicines or prescription medicines. Generally, most cases of influenza are fully recovered.
As a matter of fact, influenza is the most common disease experienced by all ages starting from children to elderly because the flu virus is easy to spread through air. Adults are usually infected by influenza 2-3 once per year while children can reach 6-7 times per year. It usually attacks when the body’s immune system is low due to lack of sleep, stress, or poor diet. It is better to recognize the first symptoms of influenza before it gets worse.
What are the first symptoms of influenza?
The first symptoms of influenza are various in each person. Below are the first symptoms of influenza that commonly occurs to humans:
- Overtired and feeling weak
Feeling tired and weak in sudden is one of the first symptoms of influenza. It usually appears before other symptoms.
- Body pain and trembling
Pain in the body usually occurs in the arms, legs, and back. Moreover, head also may be painful or dizzy which is followed by trembling.
- Cough continuously
Influenza virus can cause steady cough. Sometimes coughing is followed by tightness in the chest. It can occur both dry cough and cough with phlegm.
- Sore Throat
The first symptoms of influenza can be a sore throat. The throat begins to itch and become irritated to the point of difficulty swallowing.
- Fever
Having a fever reaching 38 degrees celsius or more is one of the first symptoms of influenza. Fever indicates the body is trying to fight virus infection.
To prevent influenza getting into severe, take early precautions for example taking enough time to rest at home, eating nutritious food, reducing fatty and spicy foods, and drinking water regularly. Basically, influenza can be prevented by vaccination. You can simply get vaccine for influenza at Medi-Call by booking through Medi-Call application or you can contact Medi-Call hotline.
In addition, influenza attacks the respiratory system such as nose, throat, and lungs. Most people will overcome influenza at home. However, if it gets worse or has complications, immediately go to a doctor.
What is the risk factor of influenza?
There are several risk factors of influenza, for example:
- Age: Seasonal influenza tends to affect toddlers and parents.
- Living conditions: People who live in shared facilities with many residents, such as nursing homes or army dormitories are more often affected by influenza.
- Weak immune system: Cancer treatments, anti-rejection medicines, corticosteroids, and HIV/AIDS can weaken the immune system. This is able to make you more susceptible to influenza. In addition, it can also increase the risk of complications.
- Chronic disease: Chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease, can increase the risk of developing complications from influenza.
- Pregnant: Pregnant women are more likely to have the risk of complications, especially in the second and third trimesters.
- Obesity: Overweight people potentially have an increased risk of influenza complications.
Generally, influenza can be avoided by reducing your risk factors. If you experience symptoms and are at risk of complications, see a doctor immediately. To prevent complications, you can take antiviral medicines in the first 48 hours after the appearance of the first symptoms of influenza.