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Body Flu Symptoms

Influenza, more commonly referred to as "the flu," is a common virus that attacks the respiratory system of its host. As with any illness, there are certain symptoms that are associated with the flu and will help determine if you are infected. The flu usually manifests itself during the winter months and is spread through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes or speaks.

  1. Fever

    • The first sign of the flu is a high temperature, or fever, present in the victim. The fever can manifest itself anywhere from 1 to 4 days after first being exposed to the virus. Fever is usually accompanied by aches and pains throughout the body, however both symptoms usually disappear after 2 or 3 days.

    Gastrointestinal Problems

    • The flu has also been known to cause various types of gastrointestinal problems in those infected. Some of the common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and strong abdominal pain. A loss of appetite may accompany these symptoms.

    Chills

    • Another common side effect of contracting the flu virus is chills. More specifically, the onset of chills throughout the body while in an environment that is not particularly cool is a tell-tale sign that you may be infected. This symptom is usually accompanied with a warm fever, causing the body to feel out of balance in regards to temperature.

    Dry Cough/Sore Throat

    • Both a dry cough and a sore throat are also common indicators of the flu virus, however they must be in conjunction with at least one of the other symptoms. While a productive cough (one in which mucus is expelled) is an indicator of the common cold, a dry cough (one without mucus) is usually associated with the flu. The influenza virus can also lead to the swelling of the throat, manifesting in soreness and pain when swallowing.

    Warning

    • If you have any combination of the aforementioned symptoms, please contact a doctor immediately.
      Medical attention is needed when contracting the flu virus and it is not advised to treat only with over-the-counter medications.
      Make sure to get plenty of rest and drink plenty of fluids while fighting the virus.
      It is always advisable to get a flu shot before flu season begins to prevent onset of the virus.

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