Influenza is a seasonal virus that causes mild to severe symptoms from which some people recover within about a week, while others may be at risk of developing serious, life-threatening complications.The risk of complications increases if they are over 65 years old, according to a report from the website. HEALTHLINE Older people tend to have a weak immune system, which happens naturally as we age and when a person’s immune system is not strong, it becomes difficult for the body to fight the virus..
When influenza infection worsens, it can develop into Pneumonia And it leads to hospitalization, and sometimes death.
What are the symptoms of the flu?
Symptoms of influenza can occur quickly, as symptoms appear on some people from one to four days after exposure to the virus, and it is necessary to distinguish between flu symptoms and symptoms of colds. The symptoms of influenza and a cold can be similar, but cold symptoms are usually more moderate in addition, Cold symptoms gradually appear.
It is different with the flu Not only is the sudden onset of symptoms, but the flu also causes symptoms that may not occur with the common cold..
Symptoms of the flu and common cold include:
Runny nose, congestion, sore throat, cough
And when infected with the flu, additional symptoms may include fever, body aches, chills, fatigue, weakness, chest discomfort, and headache.
What are the complications of the flu?
Influenza complications are not common in young adults and those with a healthy immune system, but up to about 85% of seasonal influenza-related deaths occur in people 65 years of age or older.In addition, up to about 70% of influenza-related hospitalizations occur in Same age group.
Some complications associated with the flu are not severe and may include sinusitis or an ear infection. More serious complications can include bronchitis and pneumonia that affect the lungs. Bronchitis occurs when inflammation develops in the lining of the bronchi. These are the tubes that carry air to the lungs. That bronchitis leads to pneumonia, which is an infection that causes inflammation of the air sacs in one or both lungs. Pneumonia can cause chest pain, shortness of breath and a severe cough.
In the elderly, pneumonia can also cause a lower than normal body temperature, confusion, nausea and vomiting..
Pneumonia is a serious complication. If left untreated, bacteria can enter the bloodstream and cause organ failure. This lung infection can lead to fluid accumulation in the lungs or lung abscess..
Other complications that may occur with influenza include inflammation of the heart, brain and muscles that can also lead to the failure of many organs, especially if the patient suffers from asthma or heart disease, the influenza virus can exacerbate these chronic conditions..
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