Influenza Complications

Influenza, or flu, is a viral infection that attacks the respiratory system. For people in good health, symptoms are typically comparable to a severe cold that lasts for about a week. For infants, the elderly, pregnant women and people with certain diseases, the flu can cause several serious problems. Fortunately, there are important steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing flu complications, so you can get back to your daily routine as quickly as possible.

• Taking medication at the onset of flu symptoms reduces the risk of complications.

Symptoms

• Flu symptoms tend to hit a person instantly, unlike the slow onset of common cold symptoms. Symptoms of the flu include sweating and chills, headache, muscle aches, exhaustion, congestion, loss of appetite and sometimes diarrhea or vomiting. If you experience these symptoms, contact your health care provider immediately.

  Complications occur when these symptoms are left untreated. One of the most common complications is phenomena. There are different types of pneumonia, but according to the Mayo Clinic, the one most often caused by the flu is pneumococcal pneumonia. This is a bacteria infection that must be treated with strong antibiotics. If flu symptoms last more than a week and you have pain in your lungs or chest, you may have contracted pneumonia. Although rare, it can be fatal if left untreated. Other less serious complications are sinusitis, bronchitis and ear infection.

High-Risk Groups

• Groups of people at a higher risk for developing complications from the flu, according to the Mayo Clinic, include infants and small children, the elderly and pregnant women. People suffering from HIV or AIDS; heart, lung or kidney disease; and diabetics are also at a higher risk. A pregnant woman risks passing the virus on to her fetus, which could be fatal for the fetus. The other groups are at a higher risk for developing complications from the flu because their immune systems aren't as strong.

Dangers

• The most serious complication from the flu is encephalitis, or swelling of the brain. In addition to common flu symptoms, people suffering from encephalitis will be confused and have abnormal sensitivity to light. They may also develop rashes and suffer hallucinations or personality changes. If you or a loved one experiences these symptoms, contact a health care provider immediately. If left untreated, encephalitis can be fatal.

Treatment

• Taking medication at the onset of symptoms reduces the length and severity of influenza along with your risk of developing complications. Most of the complications from the flu are bacterial infections, so your health care provider will most likely prescribe antibiotics. In addition to prescription medication, it's also important to remain hydrated. Drink enough liquids--preferably water or juices--so that your urine remains clear, not yellow. Also, be sure to get enough rest.

Prevention

• The best preventative method against flu complications is the influenza vaccine. If you can avoid catching the flu, you will obviously avoid any complications.The vaccine comes in two forms: a shot and a nasal spray.

  If you do get the flu, it's important to seek immediate treatment to prevent it from developing into anything else. If you've seen a health care provider and your symptoms don't improve within a few days, schedule a follow-up appointment.