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What Causes Flu-Like Symptoms?

A lot of illnesses mimic the flu since they present similar symptoms. Influenza is caused by one of three viruses, and is most likely to infect a person during the fall and early winter. If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms during this time period or while an widespread flu outbreak is occurring, there is a good chance that you have the flu. If you don't, there is a long list of illnesses you could be experiencing, such as appendicitis and food poisoning. Seasonal and food allergies can also cause flu-like symptoms.

  1. Appendicitis

    • Appendicitis, which is an an infection of the appendix, features flu-like symptoms, such as stomach pain, nausea and sometimes a fever and vomiting. The symptom that sets appendicitis symptoms apart from influenza is a severe pain in the lower ride side of the abdomen, which is where the appendix is located. Appendicitis can turn into an emergency situation if the appendix bursts, so it is important to seek medical care if you feel that you have this illness.

    Food Poisoning

    • If you ate something that was undercooked or infected with bacteria, you may be experiencing food poisoning. Food poisoning symptoms can range from mild to severe, and can include many flu-like aches and pains. Food poisoning can cause a high fever, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. It is essential that you drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.

    Seasonal Allergies

    • If you are allergic to pollen or any other type of irritant and experience seasonal allergies, you may face flu-like symptoms on a daily basis. Seasonal allergies may present sneezing, a runny nose, a dry or productive cough, and even a sore throat.

    Food Allergies

    • If you consume food that you are allergic to, your body may react with a host of flu-like symptoms. Food allergies can cause stomach aches and pains, headaches and even vomiting and diarrhea. In severe cases, food allergies can cause your throat or tongue to swell, which is an emergency situation.

    Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

    • Chronic fatigue syndrome, which is a common ailment, can cause extreme tiredness and body aches, similar to what a person experiences when battling the flu.

    Menstruation

    • When a female menstruates, she may experience several flu-like symptoms, such as fatigue and stomach cramps. Some women also get severe headaches and nausea as well.

    Common Cold

    • Many people confuse the common cold with the flu as there are similar symptoms. Both illnesses may cause a stuffy, runny nose, a sore throat and extreme fatigue.

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