Influenza resident survival guide
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Ogheneochuko Ajari, MB.BS, MS [2]
Overview
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is an infectious disease caused by the RNA virus called the influenza viruses A and B.
Causes
Common Causes
Complete Diagnostic Approach
Characterize the symptoms: ❑ Fever
❑ Myalgia Less common symptoms:
❑ Vomiting | |||||||||
Obtain a detailed history: ❑ Age Identify persons who are at high risk of complications from Influenza:
❑ Persons with immunosuppression, including that caused by medications or by HIV infection
❑ Women who are pregnant or postpartum (within 2 weeks after delivery)
❑ Children and adolescents through 18 years who are receiving aspirin- or salicylate-containing medications and who might be at risk for experiencing Reye syndrome after influenza virus infection
❑ American Indians/Alaska Natives
❑ Persons who are morbidly obese (BMI ≥40 kg/m2)
❑ Residents of nursing homes and other chronic-care facilities. | |||||||||
Examine the patient: Appearance ❑ Fatigue Vital signs
Skin Eyes Nose Throat Lungs | |||||||||
Management
Symptomatic Relief
Symptom(s) | OTC Medicine |
---|---|
Fever, Aches, Pains, Sinus pressure, Sore throat | Analgesics |
Nasal congestion, Sinus pressure | Decongestants |
Sinus pressure, Runny nose, Watery eyes, Cough | Antihistamines |
Cough | Cough suppressant |
Sore throat | Local anesthetics |
Do's and Dont's
- Children and teenagers with flu symptoms (particularly fever) should avoid taking aspirin as taking aspirin in the presence of influenza infection (especially Influenzavirus B) can lead to Reye's syndrome, a rare but potentially fatal disease of the liver.[2]
References
- ↑ "Cold and Flu Guidelines: Influenza". American Lung Association. Retrieved 2007-09-16.
- ↑ Molotsky, Irvin (1986-02-15). "Consumer Saturday - Warning on Flu and Aspirin". New York Times. Retrieved 2007-05-25.