Many people worldwide are suffering flu like symptoms currently. The flu is a respiratory infection. It is contagious and is caused by a variety of flu viruses. Getting a flu vaccine is the best possible prevention tool.
Diabetics are among those in the high risk group in contracting the flu since their immune system is weakened. Other high risk groups include those with asthma, emphysema, heart disease, the elderly, the very young and the pregnant.
Illnesses, such as the flu, can raise your blood glucose. Being sick also prevents you from eating properly. The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recommends diabetics who are experiencing flu like symptoms should monitor their blood glucose level closely. They suggest testing every four hours and tracking results. If you get a reading below 60 mg/dL or higher than 300 mg/dL, HHS suggests you contact your physician or seek emergency treatment.
As with anyone currently on medication, you should continue your normal routine unless your physician advises otherwise. Drink plenty of fluids. Keep hydrated. Attempt to eat as you normally would if you were not sick.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tracks influenza activity. Their reports indicate that the United States is experiencing an early flu season with widespread reports. Pennsylvania is among the 24 states reporting high levels of influenza like illness for the week ending 5 January. The CDC also reports that there have been several strains of the flu virus this season so far.
The United States is not alone in facing widespread flu outbreaks. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports increased influenza activity in Europe, North Africa, Eastern Mediterranean and Asia, in addition to the United States.
Diagnosing illnesses is often difficult. So many symptoms could be so many illnesses. For example, the flu and the common cold share similar symptoms. The flu however is more intense than the cold.
Flu symptoms:
- A fever of 100 or more
- A cough or a sore throat
- A runny nose or a stuffy nose
- Headaches
- Body aches
- Chills
- Fatigue
- Nausea or vomiting
The US Department of Health and Human Services suggests seeking emergency medical treatment if you experience a shortness in breath or difficulty breathing. Other cause to warrant emergency medical treatment is blue lips, a pain or pressure in the chest, a sudden dizziness, confusion, severe vomiting, seizures or flu like symptoms that have improved but then come back with a fever and worse cough.
NOTE:
This article is not intended to replace the medical advice of your physician. If you are experiencing any flu like symptoms, make an appointment with your physician.
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