Influenza
Alternative names:
Asian flu; Asian flu type A; Asian flu type B; flu; Influenza
A; Influenza B
Treatment:
The goal of treatment is to alleviate the symptoms. Antibiotics
are not effective against viruses. Bed rest, analgesics
(pain killers) for muscle
aches and pains, and warm fluids may help to relieve the
discomfort of the symptoms.
Amantadine (antiviral medication) may be indicated for the
elderly and people with heart or lung conditions, who face
increased risk of more serious illness associated with influenza.
Expectations (prognosis):
Symptoms usually go away in seven to 10 days. In rare cases,
influenza may cause a severe pneumonia
that may be fatal even in healthy adults.
Complications:
Calling your health care provider:
Call the health care provider if symptoms of the flu do
not improve after seven to 10 days, or if cough
becomes productive of brown or green sputum, or if difficulty
breathing develops.
Update Date: 10/08/99
Updated by: adam.com editorial
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