WHAT IS INFLUENZA (FLU) AND HOW CAN IT BE TREATED?

Flu season is here again, which means that many people will contract the viral infection known as influenza.

Influenza is a viral infection that affects the respiratory system, which includes the lungs, throat, and nose. Luckily, influenza is a highly treatable infection that often only requires rest and plenty of fluids to cure. Moreover, it is preventable with the flu vaccination in Dubai.

In more severe cases, an internal medicine specialist in Dubai can prescribe medication or a course of treatment for relieving the symptoms of influenza. And thankfully, an internist in Dubai can also administer the flu vaccination in Dubai, also known as flu shots, for preventing the viral infection.

Symptoms of Influenza

Symptoms of the flu are often similar to the common cold, such as a runny or stuffy nose and headache. However, the onset of flu symptoms tends to come on quicker, and it can make an individual feel more unwell than the common cold.

Here are the most common symptoms of influenza:

• Fever
• Aching muscles
• Chills and sweats
• Headache
• Dry, persistent cough
• Shortness of breath
• Tiredness and weakness
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sore throat
• Eye pain
• Vomiting and diarrhea

An individual who has the flu may not experience all of the following symptoms. However, most commonly, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, and a fever may appear.

Often times, medical attention is not required to overcome a flu. However, if you experience any severe symptoms, or symptoms that last for more than a week without improvement, then it is best to visit an internist in Dubai for treatment of influenza.

Treatment of Influenza

In most cases, the only course of treatment for influenza is plenty of rest, fluids, and over the counter painkiller medication to relieve pain.

However, in some cases, it is best to visit an internist in Dubai for treatment. They may prescribe an antiviral medication to reduce the duration and intensity of the flu. Moreover, they may prescribe a treatment plan to alleviate particularly bothersome symptoms, or to treat any complications that arise, such as pneumonia or bronchitis.

Seek medical treatment from an internal medicine specialist in the following cases:

• The flu has lasted several days without improvement
• Symptoms are worsening with time
• You are at high-risk due to any of the following factors:
  –    Young children under age 5, and especially those under 6 months
  –    Adults older than age 65
  –    Pregnant women and women up to two weeks after giving birth
  –    People with weakened immune systems
  –    People who have chronic illnesses, such as asthma, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, etc.
   
• You experience any of the following emergency symptoms
  –    Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  –    Chest pain
  –    Ongoing dizziness
  –    Seizures
  –    Worsening of existing medical conditions
  –    Severe weakness or muscle pain

In any of the following cases, the best internist in Dubai will be able to prescribe a treatment plan for a speedy recovery and to prevent any further complications.

Prevention of Influenza

It is recommended to get the flu vaccination, also known as the flu, shot, every annually for everyone who is 6 months and older. The flu vaccine can reduce the risk of the flu, reduce its severity, and lower the risk of developing serious illness from the flu.

An internal medicine specialist can administer the flu shot in Dubai. This is highly encouraged in order to prevent further complications and to reduce the risk.

The flu vaccination is a highly effective method of prevention of influenza, but it is not 100% effective. However, it is still considered the best prevention against the flu.

Visiting an internal medicine specialist for the flu vaccination in Dubai can greatly reduce the risk of becoming seriously ill from the flu.

Where to Find the Best Internist in Dubai?

For the best internist in Dubai, visit German Heart Centre. We have qualified doctors to administer the flu shot and can provide effective treatment against influenza. Book an appointment today to get your safe and effective flu shot in Dubai.