First Symptoms of Swine Flu

Swine flu, or H1N1 type A influenza, is one of the most feared condition today all over the world. It is an acute, highly contagious respiratory disease which is a pandemic and has also resulted in deaths of large number of people all over the world. People of any age group can contract this disease, however, children and older people are found to be at a higher risk of suffering from this disease as they have a weak immune system. In fact a majority of people have a low immune system and hence, are more susceptible to this disease. If first symptoms of swine flu are diagnosed at an early stage; it is possible to treat this condition completely. Let us take a look at the signs and symptoms of swine flu in adults and children in detail.

Early Swine Flu Symptoms

As swine flu is also one of the types of influenza or the seasonal flu, the symptoms of it are more or less similar to those of the ordinary flu.

• Fever
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Diarrhea
• Muscle aches
• Headache
• Vomiting
• Nausea

Swine flu symptoms in children, babies and adults are nearly the same. If one experiences sudden and high fever (104 degrees) without any known reasons, he/she should immediately undergo tests for swine flu. Secondly, if you suffer from sudden and severe cough, you should also be alert and look out for other symptoms of swine flu. On the other hand, sore throat or strep throat is one of the most ignored signs of swine flu, although a common one.

Following symptoms may also be observed in the later stage of the condition.

• Difficulty in breathing
• Chills
• Loss of appetite
• Rash
• Fatigue
• Upset stomach
• Sudden dizziness

Swine flu symptoms in babies include constant crying, runny nose, pain in whole body, fever and irritation. If any of these above mentioned symptoms are observed, one should consult the doctor immediately and go for swine flu tests. It may be possible that these may be merely symptoms of seasonal influenza that is commonly found in winter season. However, in order to be on a safer side, one should consult the doctor to get the condition checked and diagnosed.

Swine flu can be treated with the help of medications and treatment after hospitalization. Apart from these, one can go for the flu vaccines that are available and can help in keeping this condition at bay. One should note that these vaccines help in slowing down the attack of the disease causing pathogens. In order to prevent the disease completely, it is essential to maintain proper hygiene and cleanliness. People are also found to complain about the swine flu side effects like headache, fever and a general feeling of illness. But remember that these symptoms subside within a day or two and are not harmful. However, it is advisable to go for the vaccines only with doctor's advise and consultation.

Lastly, one should remember to use the protective masks in public, avoid being in crowds, make use of sanitizers and keep children and babies away from people suffering from any illness, in order to prevent this condition. Take care!