It is common to confuse the symptoms of COVID-19 with the seasonal flu. Both have many similar symptoms which can overlap the conditions and make it more difficult to diagnose without a proper test. While the symptoms of COVID-19 are being determined and updated every day, what do we know about the flu? The flu is a contagious viral infection that typically occurs between the fall and spring seasons. 

Being able to identify the symptoms of the flu will help in getting early medical attention, and determining if the individual is suffering from the flu or COVID-19. Therefore, the patient can be treated and recovered within a shorter period of time. Understanding that you have the flu and receiving proper treatment will help to reduce the duration of your symptoms to a large extent.

Additionally, the symptoms of the flu can resemble that of a common cold. However, the symptoms of the flu are more severe, and appear more suddenly, in comparison to a common cold. They also last much longer than the typical 4-5 day period of cold symptoms. Many of us are able to continue on with our daily life when suffering from a cold, meanwhile, the flu can leave you bedridden for a week while you recover. 

If you have the flu, you can experience a combination of these symptoms:

• Fever between 102*F and 106*F
• Runny nose
• Sore throat
• Severe body aches 
• Severe joint pain
• Fatigue
• Reddish eyes
• Watery eyes
• Flushed skin
• Headaches
• Cough
• Chills

The flu virus follows a predictable pattern from fall to spring, so it is unlikely that you will contract the flu during the summer. Even though it is rare it can still happen. Similarly to the coronavirus, the flu can spread extremely quickly and is very contagious. For every one person who has the flu, they infect at least one other person. That is why it is recommended to get the annual flu shot to prevent a wave of infections from the seasonal flu, especially among children. The outbreaks usually affect children more severely, but can also cause fatal outcomes in adults.  

This sickness usually starts with fevers, headaches, and body aches. The symptoms of the flu usually peak within three days of contracting the virus, and then reduce within a week. However, the symptoms of fatigue, sore throat, and cough may continue for another week. The average flu cycle for an adult is about 2 weeks from the start of the illness to a complete recovery. 

Managing The Symptoms

You can manage the symptoms of the flu at home by using simple methods. If you are experiencing a high fever and want to reduce it, Acetaminophen and ibuprofen can help. Stubborn cough and cold symptoms can be managed using over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol or Vicks DayQuil. Of course, resting is essential for the body to heal, as is drinking plenty of fluids.

If you experience shortness of breath, persistent cough, discoloration of lips, dizziness, seizures, and severe vomiting, you should seek immediate medical attention. The flu can lead to complications such as dehydration, sinusitis, and pneumonia. Even though most flu symptoms go away, there is a higher chance of fatal outcomes in children.