How to Diagnose the Flu
Instructions
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1
Check for a headache. Many conditions can cause a headache but this is one of the first signs of flu onset.
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2
Monitor body temperature. Unlike the common cold, fever is always a sign of the flu.
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3
Look for chills with the fever. Chills and fever tend to come together and quite quickly when the flu strikes.
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4
Listen for a cough. The flu is a virus that affects the respiratory system.
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5
Watch for signs of all over body aches. Achy muscles and back along with the other symptoms is a sure sign of the flu.
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6
Be aware of the length of illness. Flu symptoms can subside within 2 or 3 days or last up to a full 7 days. The common cold can drag on for up to 10 days without fever. The residual cough that lingers after other symptoms subside can last for weeks after the flu.
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7
Do not expect intestinal symptoms with the flu. Intestinal viruses are usually a totally different illness.
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