The flu, also called influenza, is a common sickness caused by a virus. It affects your lungs and breathing. Unlike a cold, the flu comes on quickly and can make you feel a lot worse. Knowing the signs of the flu can help you take care of it early and avoid more serious problems. Let’s go over the main symptoms of the flu.

The Flu Usually Starts with a Sudden Fever

One of the first signs of the flu is a sudden fever. This fever is usually higher than what you get with a cold, often between 101 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Both adults and kids can feel really sick when their fever spikes like this. A fever is your body’s way of fighting off the virus, but it also makes you feel weak and tired.

The fever can last about three to four days. During this time, you might also have chills and sweat as your body tries to control its temperature. It’s important to rest, stay warm, and drink plenty of fluids to help your body fight the fever.

Body Aches and Fatigue Are Big Signs of the Flu

Another common sign of the flu is body aches. People often say they feel like they’ve been “hit by a truck.” These aches can affect your muscles and joints, making even simple movements really tiring.

Along with body aches, the flu usually causes extreme tiredness. This isn’t just being sleepy—it’s feeling completely worn out like you can’t do anything but rest. This fatigue can last for days or even weeks, even after other symptoms start to get better.

Coughing and Sore Throat Are Common with the Flu

If you have the flu, you’re likely to get a dry cough. Unlike a wet cough from a cold, this flu cough doesn’t bring up much mucus. It can be hard to get rid of and may make your throat sore.

A sore throat is also common with the flu. It may start as a tickle but can become painful, especially when you swallow. This can make it hard to eat or drink, which is why it’s so important to keep drinking fluids.

Headaches and Eye Pain Can Also Happen with the Flu

A lot of people with the flu get headaches, sometimes really bad ones. These headaches can be caused by fever, dehydration, or body aches. You might also feel pain around your eyes, especially when you move your eyes quickly or look at bright lights.

It’s a good idea to rest in a dark room to help with headaches and reduce eye strain.

Some People Get Stomach Issues with the Flu

While the flu mainly affects your lungs, it can sometimes cause stomach problems too. This is more common in kids than adults. You might feel nauseous or even have vomiting and diarrhea. If these symptoms happen, make sure to drink plenty of fluids to avoid getting dehydrated, especially for young children or older adults.

The Flu Can Leave You Tired and Weak for Weeks

Even after the worst flu symptoms are gone, some people still feel really tired and weak. This can last for one to two weeks or even longer. It’s your body’s way of healing after dealing with the flu, so it’s important to keep resting until you feel better.

When Should You See a Doctor for Flu Symptoms?

Most people can handle the flu at home with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medicine. But there are times when you need to see a doctor. If you have trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion, severe dehydration, or a high fever that doesn’t go down with medicine, you need medical help right away.

Some people are at higher odds of flu complications, like young kids, older adults, pregnant women, or people with health issues. If you are in one of these groups and think you have the flu, call your doctor. Quick treatment with antiviral medication can sometimes prevent serious problems.

How to Take Care of Yourself When You Have the Flu

If you think you have the flu, the best thing to do is rest as much as possible. Drink lots of fluids—water, herbal tea, and soup can help keep you from getting dehydrated. Pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce fever and ease body aches.

Stay home and avoid other people to stop spreading the flu. The flu spreads easily, especially in the first few days of symptoms. Resting and staying away from others will help you get better and protect the people around you.

Conclusion

Flu symptoms can range from mild to very serious, but knowing what to look for can help you take care of yourself quickly. The flu often starts suddenly with fever, body aches, tiredness, and coughing. If you or someone you know has a high possibility of getting worse, make sure to see a doctor. For most people, rest, fluids, and symptom relief will help you start feeling better.

FAQs About the Flu

1. How long does the flu last?

The flu usually lasts about one to two weeks. The worst symptoms, like fever and body aches, often last three to five days, but fatigue and weakness can last longer, sometimes up to two weeks or more.

2. Can the flu be treated at home?

Yes, most people can treat the flu at home. Rest, drinking lots of fluids, and using over-the-counter medicines like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help relieve symptoms. However, if symptoms get worse, it’s important to see a doctor.

3. How can I prevent getting the flu?

The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu shot every year. Also, washing your hands often, avoiding close contact with sick people, and staying healthy with good sleep and a balanced diet can help reduce your risk.

4. Is the flu dangerous?

For most people, the flu is not dangerous, but it can lead to serious complications for young children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with certain health problems. If you are in a high-risk group, it’s important to see a doctor if you think you have the flu.