DHAKA: Amidst the rising cases of swine flu all over India and the fear of spreading throughout the nation, what everyone should be aware of is the fact that panicking won’t help you. Instead of blaming your fate and the Government for not providing effective healthcare facilities, you can educate yourself about the symptoms and signs of swine flu and create awareness among your family. This is the first and most effective step you can take to prevent it. However, before getting down to the common signs and symptoms of swine flu, here’s what you should know first, reports thehealthsite.com. 

Also known as H1N1 type an influenza, the symptoms of swine flu are quite common to those experience in case of seasonal flu. But, swine flu is highly contagious and can be transmitted quickly from a person suffering with the condition through air droplets. The virus can be spread (by the people suffering from the condition) one day before the actual symptoms arise and around 7 days after the symptoms start to develop. However, in case of children, the virus is active for around 10 days and thus, the chances of infection are high in this case.

Here are the common signs and symptoms that start to develop after you are infected with the virus.

Fever: As in case of normal flu, infection with H1N1 influenza virus also causes an increase in the body temperature (100 degree Fahrenheit or more). Known as the first-line of attack by the immune system, the body produces immune cells to kill the foreign bodies. This in turn causes the release of cytokines and histamines that increase the body temperature.

Headache: The second most common symptom after fever is headache. At this stage, you may get confused with common cold and flu. However, it is important to check other common signs to rule out seasonal flu. Read about 5 natural remedies for headaches that actually work!

Chills: Another common symptom that most people experience is chills accompanied by high fever. Although chills along with fever present a typical case of common cold and flu, it might signify infection with H1N1 influenza virus.

Diarrhea: You may also experience diarrhea or loose motions, which is quite common once the disease progresses. Also, it is quite common in children and adults usually don’t vomit (although in rare cases, they may suffer from diarrhea or vomiting).

Sore throat: Some people infected with the virus might develop sore throat. It may take some time after infected with the virus to develop sore throat. This usually initiates with a scratchy or dry itching in the throat and can also lead to lesions in the throat. Here are 6 ways to prevent a sore throat from worsening.

Cough: A common symptom the most people experience due to change in the temperature or drop in the temperature, swine flu can lead to coughing. It can be caused due to progression of a sore throat.

Sneezing: As the infection progresses, you may also suffer from sneezing. This is the time when the chance of spreading the infection is more and the virus is more active. Hence, you should cover your mouth with handkerchief while sneezing to prevent the spread of the infection.

Blocked nasal passage: Nasal congestion or the feeling of a blocked nose can be a real problem affecting your ability to breathe. A viral infection is the most common cause of swelling of the nasal linings (a thin mucous membrane surrounding the nose) which in turn blocks the nose leading to breathing difficulty. Here are some common causes and remedies for blocked nose.

Fatigue: You may start to experience fatigue as the disease progresses due to inability of the immune system to fight with the virus. This is generally experienced after two – three days of getting infected with the virus. This is the reason, why you should take sufficient rest (probably stay inside) and eat healthy to boost your immune action.

However, if any of these symptoms do not subside within three days or you have high fever or sudden breathlessness, consult your doctor immediately. You may be recommended a blood test to detect the virus and your doctor will decide the course of action thereafter.

BDST: 2232 HRS, FEB 24, 2015