
Knowing symptoms of swine flu is a major step in combating this disease. This article will deal with the symptoms in different stages of infestation….
Almost a couple of years ago, the world was grappling with swine flu, a new kind of disease in humans which caused a lot of panic among the masses as well as in the medical fraternity. Swine flu, officially known as swine influenza, is believed to be caused by a strain of virus, called H1N1. Swine flu is highly contagious and can spread quickly. A number of people from various countries had been affected due to the H1N1 virus and also had to suffer a lot, due to initial ignorance towards this disease. There were also a number of deaths reported during the spread of this disease, making the World Health Organization (WHO) term it as a pandemic. Though it has come down considerably, a few cases are still reported now and then.
The signs and symptoms of swine flu appear to be similar to the normal flu. However, doctors warn that they may be persistent and can even worsen with the passage of time. The symptoms of this disease may surface after two or three days of viral infestation. These can continue up to 10 days after the exposure. Given below are the symptoms which have been observed in the different stages of the viral attack.
Initial Signs
Though mild and resembling the common cold and flu, the first symptoms of swine flu need to be monitored, to check if it is just the ordinary flu or something serious. Given below are some of the symptoms of swine flu as seen in the primary stage.
- Common cold
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Fever, which may measure up to 101.3 ºF. The fever can sometimes be accompanied by chills.
- Headaches which may range from moderate to pounding
- Sore throat, with a feeling of dryness or scratchy sensation
- Dry cough, which may have traces of sputum
Progression
As the flu progresses, the symptoms may also increase in intensity. Here are a few progressive signs of swine flu, as observed in some individuals.
- High grade fever, which may not come down for days together.
- Body rash due to high fever
- Worsened cough, which is productive
- Body ache, followed by weakness
- Inability to get up
- Muscle pain
- Severe diarrhea
- Dehydration
Intense Symptoms
Emergency medical assistance may be needed in this case, as it can lead to several complications. Since these symptoms may worsen and affect the overall health of the individual, hospitalization till recovery may be recommended by the doctor. Listed below are some of the severe symptoms of this viral disease.
- Shortness of breath or dyspnea
- Trouble breathing due to nasal blockage
- Sudden dizziness
- Bluish or grayish discoloration of the skin
- Persistent vomiting
- State of confusion
- Complaint of pain in the abdomen and thoracic region
Spread of Swine Flu
Swine flu can spread from an infected person to a healthy one, through different media which makes it essential for everyone to be aware of the precautions for swine flu. Sneezing and coughing are two such means through which the virus enters the atmosphere and affects people. Even when an individual comes in touch with an infected surface, he is at risk of getting infected by this virus.
To avoid this transmission, it is essential to practice hygiene and also to avoid coming in contact with an infected person. In case this happens, washing hands with warm water and soap, or using a sanitizer, will help in preventing the occurrence of the symptoms of swine flu. Though they may resemble that of the infection caused due to other virus strains, it is more severe than it appears. It can also lead to the death of the affected person. The symptoms need to be recognized in the initial stages itself and prevented from taking an ugly turn.
This was all about the symptoms of swine flu as observed in teenagers, which is also similar in adults as well as in children. With the help of Tamiflu, and other medication, the prognosis of this deadly disease can be improved. Now that the scientists have come up with the swine flu vaccine, this deadly disease can be prevented.
In general, a balanced diet will also help improve immunity and resistance power in you as well as your kids. An awareness of the swine flu facts will prove to be helpful in preventing the spread of this global pandemic disease.