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The H1N1 flu, also known as swine flu, is easily transmitted from person to person and is associated with respiratory complications, such as pneumonia, when not identified and treated correctly. Therefore, it is important that the person is attentive to the symptoms of H1N1 flu so that treatment can be started right away. The main indicative symptoms of H1N1 flu are:
- Sudden fever that exceeds 38 ° C;
- Severe cough;
- Constant headache;
- Pain in the joints and muscles;
- Lack of appetite;
- Frequent chills;
- Stuffy nose, sneezing and shortness of breath;
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea;
- General malaise.
According to the symptoms presented by the person, the general practitioner or pulmonologist can indicate whether it is necessary to do any exam to identify the disease and check for the existence of associated complications and the most appropriate treatment.
What is the difference between H1N1 flu and common flu?
Although the H1N1 flu and the common flu are similar, in the case of the H1N1 flu the headache is more intense and there may also be joint pain and shortness of breath. In addition, infection by the virus responsible for the H1N1 flu is associated with some respiratory complications, especially in children, the elderly and people who have a weakened immune system.
Therefore, it is usually indicated by the doctor that the H1N1 flu is treated with antivirals so that it is possible to prevent complications. On the other hand, the common flu does not need specific treatment, and only rest and healthy eating are indicated, because the immune system is able to fight the disease naturally, with no risk of complications.
Unlike the H1N1 flu, the common flu does not have joint pain, the headache is more tolerable, there is no shortness of breath and a large amount of secretions is produced.
How the diagnosis is made
The diagnosis of the H1N1 flu is made mainly through a clinical examination made by the general practitioner, infectious disease specialist or pulmonologist in which the signs and symptoms presented by the person are evaluated.
In addition, in the most severe cases in which respiratory capacity is compromised, analysis of nose and throat secretions may be recommended to confirm the type of virus and, therefore, the most appropriate treatment should be indicated if necessary.
H1N1 flu in babies and children
In babies and children, H1N1 influenza leads to the same symptoms as in adults, however it is also common to see stomach pain and diarrhea. To identify this disease, one must be aware of the increase in crying and irritability in babies and be wary when the child says that the whole body hurts, as it can be a sign of the headaches and muscles caused by this flu.
In cases of fever, cough and persistent irritability, one should contact the pediatrician to immediately start the appropriate treatment, as the drugs for are most effective when used in the first 48 hours of the disease.
Treatment can be done at home, but it is important to avoid contact with other babies and children so that the transmission of the disease does not occur, and it is recommended to avoid daycare or school for at least 8 days.
Find out how food can help cure H1N1 flu faster in the following video.