Autumn is the season of romantic evenings and golden trees. But with the longer evenings comes the changeable weather and flu season. Influenza is the most common viral illness in the cold season. This time of year is often marked by an increase in the number of flu cases. It is one of those dangerous viruses that is ready to strike us every year, regardless of our age or health. Such experiences often leave us with the question: what to do?

In this article, together with Drops Clinic doctors, we will look at the symptoms of flu, the main types of flu and discuss the most effective ways to fight it. In order to stay healthy and strong this flu season.

Symptoms of influenza

Symptoms of influenza often appear suddenly, within 1-4 days of contracting the virus. The illness often starts with acute general malaise and severe weakness. The symptoms of influenza can be varied, but the most common are:

1. Fever. Fever is the body’s way of fighting infection. When viruses enter the body, our immune system reacts by raising our body temperature to create unfavourable conditions for the virus to multiply and get rid of it faster. If your temperature does not drop after taking fever-relieving medication, see your doctor.

2. Sore throat. Flu viruses can cause inflammation in the throat, which can lead to a sore throat. How to help yourself? Drink warm drinks with a little honey and lemon juice.

3. Cough. Coughing is the body’s way of clearing the airways of accumulated mucus. To relieve a cough, drink plenty of water, use syrup or cough lozenges.

4. Headache. The inflammatory process and fever can sometimes lead to headaches. Get enough rest and drink enough fluids to relieve headaches.

5. Muscle and joint pain. Influenza causes inflammation throughout the body, which can lead to muscle or joint pain.

6. Fatigue. Fatigue is the body’s reaction to inflammation and viral infection. Rest is very important, so get as much rest as your body needs.

7. Sickness and sneezing. These are respiratory reactions to viruses. You can use sprays or antidiarrhoeal medicines to make breathing easier.

Flu symptoms often appear suddenly and can last from days to weeks. It is important to remember that flu can be dangerous. Influenza can have serious complications, so it is important to take timely action. It is therefore important to see a doctor in good time if you feel any symptoms of flu so that he or she can make an accurate diagnosis and start the right treatment. This will help you avoid complications and ensure a faster recovery.

Symptoms of influenza A

Influenza A is one of the two main types of influenza viruses (the other is influenza B), and is the most common cause of influenza epidemics. Influenza A virus also has a large host range. It is spread not only by humans, but also by domestic animals (pigs, horses), marine mammals, wild and domestic birds.

The wide circulation of the virus favours mutations, and the structure of influenza A is constantly changing. This variant of the disease can change for years, which is why influenza A virus often causes not only epidemics, but also pandemics (epidemics that spread worldwide).

The symptoms of influenza A are very similar to those of other types of influenza and include:

• Fever,
• cough,
• sore throat,
• intense muscle and joint pain,
• fatigue,
• severe headaches,
• nausea and general weakness.

Influenza A virus is transmitted from person to person by airborne transmission or by direct contact with a sick person. The virus can also be transmitted through contaminated surfaces. The influenza A season often starts in winter or early spring.

It is important to know that influenza A can be dangerous, especially for older people, children and those with weakened immune systems. The flu vaccine can help protect against influenza A infection and reduce the severity of symptoms.

Symptoms of influenza B

Influenza B is another of the main types of influenza viruses. Although less common than influenza A, this virus can also cause serious illness with a range of symptoms.

The symptoms of influenza B are often similar to those of influenza A, but there are some differences. The symptoms of influenza A are often more intense, while those of influenza B are milder.

The main symptoms of influenza B are:

• Fever,
• cough,
• sore throat,
• fatigue,
• headache,
• muscle and joint pain.

The influenza B virus is often less variable than influenza A, so the influenza B season may start later and be less intense.

How is flu detected?

A diagnosis of influenza is important to ensure that the disease is treated properly and that no complications arise. The diagnosis of influenza is usually based on the patient’s symptoms, the seasonality of the illness and the doctor’s clinical judgement. The main steps to make a diagnosis of influenza are:

1. Symptom analysis: the doctor will listen carefully to the patient about the symptoms he or she is experiencing, including fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, fatigue, or other flu-like symptoms. If the patient is experiencing many of these symptoms, it may be a sign of influenza.
2. Medical history: the doctor may also be interested in the patient’s medical history – travels, contacts with sick people, previous illnesses and other factors that may help to make a diagnosis of flu.
3. Physical examination: the doctor will also carry out a physical examination of the patient, which will include body temperature, throat and respiratory status or other body parameters needed to make a diagnosis.
4. Laboratory tests: for many cases of influenza, symptoms and clinical assessment may be sufficient for diagnosis. However, in some cases, doctors may prescribe laboratory tests, such as a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test or a complete blood count, to help confirm the presence of the influenza virus.
5. Secondary investigations: if more serious complications of the disease are suspected, your doctor may carry out additional investigations, such as an X-ray to check for pneumonia.

Symptoms of influenza are often similar to other colds or other respiratory illnesses, which can make a targeted diagnosis difficult. It is important to seek medical attention in good time if you experience any flu-like symptoms, especially if the symptoms are severe or last more than a few days, to avoid the risk of complications..

Possible complications of influenza

Most cases of influenza are resolved in less than two weeks with proper treatment, but sometimes, especially if not treated in time, influenza complications can be life-threatening and even fatal. Complications of influenza are particularly dangerous for people in at-risk groups (seniors, pregnant women).

The most common potential complications of influenza are:

1. Pneumonia: this is one of the most common complications of flu. Pneumonia can be caused by influenza virus infection or by co-infection of influenza virus and bacteria. Once in the lungs, the influenza virus causes inflammation, which is particularly dangerous for the elderly, children and people with chronic lung diseases.
2. Bronchitis: this is inflammation of the bronchial tubes of the lungs, which can develop as a complication of flu. The main symptom of bronchitis is a cough with copious mucus discharge.
3. Cardiovascular complications: the influenza virus can also affect the heart and blood vessels, causing a heart attack, inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis) or inflammation of the pericardium (pericarditis).
4. Inflammation of the brain (encephalitis): this is a rare but serious complication of flu. Symptoms of encephalitis include headaches, impaired consciousness and other neurological symptoms.
5. Sinus and ear infections: these are moderate complications of influenza and are relatively common. Sinusitis is characterised by swelling of the nasal mucosa and pain in the scalp, and nasal discharge may occur. Inflammation of the ears (otitis) can cause pain and discomfort in the ears and, in rare cases, hearing loss. These inflammations are often painful and require medical attention and antibacterial treatment.
6. Inflammation of muscle tissue (myositis, rhabdomyolysis): in some cases, influenza can cause inflammation of muscle tissue called myositis. Inflammation is usually manifested by severe muscle pain, swelling and sometimes even fever. This condition can be very uncomfortable and limit mobility.
7. Other complications: influenza can also cause multiple organ failure (e.g. respiratory and kidney). Influenza virus infection in the respiratory tract can trigger an extreme inflammatory response in the body, leading to the life-threatening condition of sepsis. Influenza can also worsen chronic diseases (asthma, heart disease).

It is important not to delay and to take timely treatment to avoid serious complications from flu. Therefore, if you experience flu-like symptoms, see a doctor as soon as possible for a diagnosis of flu and the necessary treatment. Do not self-medicate, as you could make the situation worse.

Treatment of influenza

If you get the flu, it is very important to see your doctor immediately and follow all his/her recommendations on how to treat the flu. Treatment for flu is usually symptomatic, aimed at relieving symptoms and preventing complications. Patients with flu are advised to get plenty of rest and drink plenty of fluids. Treatment of influenza usually takes place at home. If the flu is particularly severe, hospitalisation may be necessary.

Drugs such as amantadine, remantadine against influenza A virus or zanamivir against influenza A and B viruses are effective for the first two days after the onset of influenza. Paracetamol can be used if the fever rises above 38.5°C.

Nasal decongestants help to reduce swelling of the mucous membranes and make breathing easier. Vitamin C and antihistamines may also be useful to relieve symptoms.

It is important to remember that influenza is not routinely treated with antibiotics, unless bacterial complications arise that require antibiotics.

With timely treatment and sufficient rest, flu symptoms usually subside in a few days or less than two weeks. However, if you develop severe symptoms such as chest pain, breathing difficulties, drowsiness or disorientation, or if your temperature does not drop, it is essential to see a doctor as soon as possible.

Ways to prevent influenza

Prevention is an essential part of controlling influenza and is probably the best way to protect yourself from flu symptoms. Here are some ways to prevent influenza infection and prevent spreading it if you get sick yourself:

Flu vaccine: the most effective way to protect yourself against flu and reduce the risk of illness is to get vaccinated. The flu vaccine is updated every year to reflect the latest variants of the flu virus. The vaccine helps the body build up resistance to the flu virus, reducing the risk of infection or complications and the severity of symptoms. It is particularly important to vaccinate people who are in higher risk groups, such as children, older people and people with chronic illnesses.

Hygiene: good personal hygiene practices are also important for influenza prevention. Good hygiene is particularly important in the context of an influenza epidemic. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after contact with dirty surfaces or infected persons, and after coughing and sneezing. Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.

Coughing and sneezing etiquette: when coughing and sneezing, cover your nose and mouth with a handkerchief or your elbow to prevent airborne transmission.

Avoiding contact with sick people: be careful to avoid close contact with people who have flu symptoms. Avoid gatherings during an influenza epidemic. If you are ill yourself, stay at home to avoid spreading the infection.

Intravenous therapy: boosting immunity is one of the most effective ways to protect against the virus, allowing the body to fight infections more effectively. Intravenous therapy will help boost immunity.

The therapy uses infusion fluids enriched with electrolytes and salts, which contain various vitamins or vitamin complexes, trace elements and other substances that help strengthen the immune system. Drip therapy can also speed up recovery and facilitate treatment.

In order to benefit from IV therapy, it is important to self-medicate and choose only professional services. Contact Drops Clinic family doctors for the most appropriate method of flu treatment and prevention. Doctors will recommend drips for you or your loved ones based on your individual needs and health condition.

Proper rest and nutrition: a healthy lifestyle, a balanced diet and a proper rest regime will help to strengthen the immune system and the body’s ability to fight infections, including influenza.

Wearing medical face masks: The COVID-19 pandemic period showed that medical masks can be an excellent way to manage the incidence of influenza viruses in a country. It is recommended to wear a medical mask in places where large numbers of people usually congregate, such as a shop, a medical facility, etc.

Prevention is the most effective way to protect yourself against influenza. By taking these measures, you can protect yourself from influenza infection, avoid the risk of complications and thus contribute to the overall protection of public health.

Influenza is not only unpleasant but also a dangerous viral infection that can lead to serious complications. Although there are effective treatments available, the best way to protect yourself from influenza is to follow the right preventive measures and get vaccinated on time. The best ways to protect yourself against the virus are a healthy lifestyle, good hygiene and boosting your immunity. Intravenous therapy is an effective way to boost immunity, as it involves the intravenous injection of vitamin complexes, trace elements and other substances that help strengthen the immune system. If you are already ill, it is important to see your doctor immediately and to follow all his instructions. If you want to avoid illness or get better as soon as possible, don’t hesitate to contact Drops Clinic family doctors for the most appropriate method of flu treatment and prevention.

Frequently asked questions

How to treat flu?

Treatment of flu is usually symptomatic. If you get flu, it is very important to see your doctor immediately and to follow all his/her recommendations. It is also important to rest and drink enough fluids. Antiviral drugs such as amantadine, remantadine and zanamivir are suitable for the first two days of illness. Paracetamol can be used if the body temperature rises above 38.5°C.

If tablet treatment is not suitable for you, you can come to Drops Clinic. At our clinic you can choose to have antiviral drugs administered intravenously. Medicines given directly into the bloodstream are absorbed more quickly, so recovery time is much quicker than if you are treated with tablets.

How to protect yourself against flu?

Preventing flu is the most important way to protect yourself from flu symptoms. The most effective way is to get vaccinated. It is also important to follow other preventive measures such as good hygiene, a balanced diet and sufficient rest. All of these measures work together to ensure good immunity and protect against flu and other infections. You can use intravenous therapy to boost your immunity.

What are the signs of influenza that require urgent care?

Urgent care is needed if a child or adult develops severe flu symptoms. In children, this can include rapid or labored breathing, bluish lips, severe chest pain, muscle weakness, dehydration and high body temperature. Adults may experience shortness of breath, persistent chest or abdominal pain, dizziness, urinary incontinence, severe muscle pain, extreme weakness, or other signs of a severe condition. If you notice these symptoms, contact your doctor or an ambulance immediately. It is important to react immediately to acute symptoms as these may be signs of a life-threatening condition. “Drops Clinic doctors will immediately take co-clinical blood tests, which will tell you exactly what is needed for both children and adults.

How to distinguish a cold from flu?

Colds and flu have similar symptoms, but there are also differences. Influenza often starts suddenly, with a high fever, severe muscle and joint pain, fatigue and coughing. Flu symptoms are often much more intense.

Colds usually start with milder symptoms of nasal congestion and sore throat, with no or very low fever. With flu, fever and severe muscle aches are more common, and if you are experiencing these symptoms, it is most likely the flu. However, only your doctor can make an accurate diagnosis..