Flu Influenza

Influenza (Flu): Or something else? Differential Diagnosis

Respiratory System (J00-J99) Respiratory infection, unspecified Pneumonia (pneumonia), interstitial (caused by other pathogens: e.g., chlamydia, legionella, mycoplasma, influenza and parainfluenza viruses, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), adenoviruses). Infectious and parasitic diseases (A00-B99). Influenza – viral infection of the upper respiratory tract; so-called common cold. Influenza-like Illness – generic term for infectious disease of the respiratory tract … Influenza (Flu): Or something else? Differential Diagnosis

Influenza (Flu): Complications

The following are the most important diseases or complications that may be contributed to by influenza (flu): Respiratory system (J00-J99) Bronchitis – inflammation of the bronchi. Bronchopneumonia, secondary-bacterial (caused by pneumococcus, Staphylococcus aureus, or Haemophilus influenzae). Pulmonary edema – accumulation of water in the lungs. Pneumonia (pneumonia) – primary hemorrhagic or interstitial pneumonia; primarily viral, … Influenza (Flu): Complications

Influenza (Flu): Examination

A comprehensive clinical examination is the basis for selecting further diagnostic steps: General physical examination – including blood pressure, pulse, body temperature, body weight, body height; further: Inspection (viewing). Skin and mucous membranes Throat Sclera (white part of the eye) Abdomen (abdomen) Shape of the abdomen? Skin color? Skin texture? Efflorescences (skin changes)? Pulsations? Bowel … Influenza (Flu): Examination

Influenza (Flu): Test and Diagnosis

In most cases, physical examination and precise information about the onset of the disease and symptoms are sufficient for the physician.2nd order laboratory parameters – depending on the results of the medical history, physical examination, etc. – for differential diagnostic clarification Antibodies against influenza viruses (A and B) – antigen detection: respiratory tract secretions (sputum, … Influenza (Flu): Test and Diagnosis

Influenza (Flu): Drug Therapy

Therapeutic targets Alleviation of discomfort Avoidance of complications Therapy recommendations In individuals without serious secondary diagnoses, only symptomatic therapy is required: Analgesics (painkillers)/antipyretics (fever-reducing drugs), if necessary, preferably paracetamol). If necessary, decongestant nasal spray (to keep the nasal breathing free); up to four times a day. Caution. Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) must not be used under … Influenza (Flu): Drug Therapy

Influenza (Flu): Diagnostic Tests

Optional medical device diagnostics – depending on the results of the history, physical examination, laboratory diagnostics, and obligatory medical device diagnostics – for differential diagnostic clarification. X-ray of the chest (X-ray thorax/chest), in two planes – to exclude pneumonia (lung inflammation) [evidence of pulmonary infiltrate]. X-ray images or computed tomography (CT; sectional imaging method (X-ray … Influenza (Flu): Diagnostic Tests

Influenza (Flu): Medical History

Medical history (history of illness) represents an important component in the diagnosis of influenza (flu). Family history What is the general health of your family members? Social history What is your profession? When and where were you last on vacation? Do you have much contact with people? Do you have much contact with poultry? Current … Influenza (Flu): Medical History

Influenza (Flu): Micronutrient Therapy

Within the framework of micronutrient medicine (vital substances), the following vital substances (micronutrients) are used for supportive therapy of influenza. Vitamin C. First, the administration of vitamin C can help strengthen the immune system. Furthermore, it can weaken the symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections such as colds and flu. Zinc showed an effect on … Influenza (Flu): Micronutrient Therapy

Influenza (Flu): Prevention

Influenza vaccination (flu shot) is the most important and effective preventive measure. Prevention of influenza (flu) further requires attention to reducing individual risk factors. Behavioral risk factors Diet Micronutrient deficiency (vital substances) – see Prevention with micronutrients. Consumption of stimulants Tobacco (smoking) – increases oxidative stress, weakens the immune system, and damages the respiratory system … Influenza (Flu): Prevention

Influenza (Flu): Symptoms, Complaints, Signs

Influenza typically has an acute onset with severe symptoms.The following symptoms or complaints may occur with seasonal influenza: Sudden onset Fever over 39 °C (with chills) Cough (irritable cough) with tachypnea (respiratory rate > 20/min). Headache and pain in the limbs Sore throat Pharyngitis (inflammation of the throat) Tracheobronchitis (inflammation of the mucous membranes of … Influenza (Flu): Symptoms, Complaints, Signs

Influenza (Flu): Causes

Pathogenesis (development of disease) Seasonal influenza can be distinguished from pandemic influenza (H1N1). Seasonal influenza is caused by type A, B, or C influenza viruses. These are orthomyxoviruses (RNA viruses). Type A influenza viruses in particular are responsible for epidemics. Since 1972, more than 20 variants of the type A virus have been found. This … Influenza (Flu): Causes

Influenza (Flu): Therapy

General measures Observance of the general hygiene measures! In the occurrence of fever: Bed rest and physical rest (even if fever is only mild; if limb pain and lassitude occur without fever, bed rest and physical rest is also required, because myocarditis/heart muscle inflammation could occur as a result of the infection). Fever below 38.5 … Influenza (Flu): Therapy