Flu Or Influenza

r>Although it is normally simply referred to as the flu, the disease known as influenza has wreaked havoc, discomfort and even death for quite some time. Today, the virus can generally be managed by medications; however, at one time, it was known to be capable of wiping out almost entire populations. During the first part of the twentieth century a flu epidemic killed millions of people worldwide. Although there has not been an epidemic of that degree since then, smaller bouts of the flu have none the less caused many deaths. During the mid-part of the twentieth century more than 50,000 people died as a result of the flu in the United States alone.

While today the flu is primarily only capable of causing some serious discomfort it still has the ability to be quite deadly, especially when certain strains of the virus are contracted and when it infects the elderly, very young and those who have weakened immune systems. Estimates indicate that even with all of the modern medical technology and knowledge the world has attained, some 20,000 people still die from the flu and flu related problems each year. It is actually the 6th most common form of death in the United States.

Basically, the flu is an infection that attacks the upper respiratory system. Of course, it is highly contagious; which gives it the ability to spread very quickly. Usually, most bouts of the flu tend to occur in the late fall, winter and sometimes in the early spring. This is why flu shots and vaccinations are promoted just before these time periods. The flu tends to be spread mainly by coughing and sneezing.

At first, you may only think you have contracted a cold when first coming down with the flu. It soon becomes apparent; however, that the flu is much more serious than any common cold. Usual symptoms of the flu include a fever of up to 104 degrees, sweating, chills, dry cough, muscle aches and pains, sore throat, headache, lethargy, nasal congestion and fatigue. While these symptoms can be quite bothersome and disturbing, the real problems with the flu occur when complications set in.

The most serious potential complication of the flu is what is known as bacterial pneumonia. This occurs when the lining of the respiratory tract becomes damaged. Bacteria can then invade your system and cause an infection. This can prove to be very serious in the case of the elderly, who may require hospitalization.

If you have been exposed to the flu and are wondering whether you may contract the virus, you usually will not have to wait long. The incubation period, the time between being exposed and coming down the disease, usually only lasts about one to two days.

Although the presence of the above described symptoms can be enough to let you know that you may have the flu, a doctor will usually need to confirm the diagnosis by running certain laboratory tests. The flu can be treated with medications that can make the primary symptoms far less uncomfortable. Getting lots of rest and making sure that you stay hydrated are extremely important when recuperating from the flu.

About The Author:
Jason Petrina is the Editor and Publisher of Article Click. For more FREE articles for your ezine and websites visit - www.articleclick.com

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Title:	Flu Or Influenza
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Flu Or Influenza