What are the main symptoms of post-viral fatigue. How is post-viral fatigue diagnosed. What are the treatment options for managing post-viral fatigue. How long does recovery from post-viral fatigue typically take.

What Is Post-Viral Fatigue and How Does It Differ from Regular Fatigue?

Post-viral fatigue is a condition characterized by persistent feelings of extreme tiredness that linger after a viral illness. Unlike regular fatigue, which is a normal experience from time to time, post-viral fatigue can persist for weeks or months following a viral infection such as the flu. This prolonged exhaustion can significantly impact daily life and overall well-being.

The primary distinction between post-viral fatigue and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) lies in their underlying causes. While CFS often has no clear trigger, post-viral fatigue is directly linked to a preceding viral infection. This connection to a specific virus sets post-viral fatigue apart and provides a starting point for understanding its origins and potential management strategies.

Recognizing the Symptoms: Beyond Just Feeling Tired

While the hallmark of post-viral fatigue is an overwhelming lack of energy, the condition encompasses a range of symptoms that can vary in intensity and duration. Identifying these symptoms is crucial for proper diagnosis and management.

• Persistent exhaustion, even after rest
• Difficulty concentrating or memory issues
• Sore throat
• Recurring headaches
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Unexplained muscle or joint pain

These symptoms can significantly impact daily functioning, making routine tasks feel extraordinarily challenging. Understanding the full spectrum of symptoms associated with post-viral fatigue is essential for both patients and healthcare providers in developing effective management strategies.

The Viral Culprits: Which Infections Are Most Likely to Trigger Post-Viral Fatigue?

Several viruses have been associated with the development of post-viral fatigue. Identifying these potential triggers can help in understanding the condition and its origins.

• Epstein-Barr virus
• Human herpes virus 6
• Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
• Enteroviruses
• Rubella
• West Nile virus
• Ross River virus

While these viruses have been linked to post-viral fatigue, it’s important to note that not everyone who contracts these infections will develop the condition. The reasons why some individuals experience prolonged fatigue after viral infections while others recover quickly remain a subject of ongoing research.

Theories Behind Post-Viral Fatigue Development

Several theories attempt to explain why certain viruses may lead to post-viral fatigue:

1. An unusual immune response to viruses that can remain dormant within the body
2. Elevated levels of proinflammatory cytokines, which promote inflammation
3. Inflammation of nervous tissue

These theories highlight the complex interplay between viral infections, the immune system, and the body’s inflammatory responses. Understanding these mechanisms could pave the way for more targeted treatments in the future.

Diagnosing Post-Viral Fatigue: A Process of Elimination

Diagnosing post-viral fatigue can be challenging due to the similarity of its symptoms to many other conditions. Healthcare providers often need to rule out other potential causes of fatigue before arriving at a diagnosis of post-viral fatigue.

Steps in the Diagnostic Process

1. Thorough physical examination
2. Detailed discussion of symptoms and medical history
3. Blood and urine tests to rule out conditions like hypothyroidism, diabetes, or anemia
4. Exercise stress test to evaluate cardiovascular and respiratory function
5. Sleep study to identify potential sleep disorders

Patients can assist in the diagnostic process by keeping a detailed timeline of their symptoms, noting when they first appeared, how they’ve progressed, and any potential triggers or exacerbating factors. This information can be invaluable to healthcare providers in piecing together the puzzle of post-viral fatigue.

Managing Post-Viral Fatigue: Strategies for Symptom Relief

While there is no definitive cure for post-viral fatigue, several strategies can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Treatment typically focuses on alleviating specific symptoms and adapting daily routines to conserve energy.

Key Management Strategies

• Over-the-counter pain relievers for muscle aches and headaches
• Use of organizational tools to aid memory and concentration
• Energy conservation techniques
• Relaxation methods such as yoga, meditation, and massage therapy
• Acupuncture for pain relief and stress reduction

Implementing these strategies often requires a multifaceted approach, combining medical interventions with lifestyle adjustments. Working closely with healthcare providers to develop a personalized management plan is crucial for optimizing outcomes.

The Emotional Toll: Addressing the Psychological Impact of Post-Viral Fatigue

The persistent nature of post-viral fatigue can take a significant toll on mental health. Feelings of frustration, isolation, and hopelessness are common among those grappling with the condition. Acknowledging and addressing these emotional challenges is an essential component of comprehensive care.

Coping Strategies for Emotional Well-being

• Joining support groups (local or online) to connect with others experiencing similar challenges
• Utilizing resources from organizations like the American Myalgic Encephalomyelitis and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Society
• Learning effective communication strategies to discuss the condition with healthcare providers
• Practicing self-compassion and setting realistic expectations for recovery

Addressing the psychological aspects of post-viral fatigue is crucial for overall well-being and can significantly impact the recovery process. Mental health support should be considered an integral part of the management plan for individuals dealing with this condition.

The Recovery Journey: Understanding the Variability in Post-Viral Fatigue Outcomes

Recovery from post-viral fatigue is a highly individualized process, with no set timeline or guaranteed outcome. Some individuals may experience a gradual return to their pre-illness energy levels, while others may face a more protracted recovery period.

Factors Influencing Recovery

• The specific virus responsible for the initial infection
• Individual immune system responses
• Pre-existing health conditions
• Adherence to management strategies
• Access to supportive care and resources

Given the variability in recovery trajectories, it’s essential for individuals with post-viral fatigue to work closely with their healthcare providers to develop realistic expectations and adjust management strategies as needed. Flexibility and patience are key components of the recovery process.

Emerging Research: New Insights into Post-Viral Fatigue

As interest in post-viral fatigue grows, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, researchers are delving deeper into the mechanisms underlying the condition. This ongoing research holds promise for developing more targeted treatments and improving outcomes for those affected by post-viral fatigue.

Areas of Active Investigation

• Genetic factors that may predispose individuals to post-viral fatigue
• The role of mitochondrial dysfunction in persistent fatigue
• Potential biomarkers for diagnosing and monitoring post-viral fatigue
• Novel therapeutic approaches, including immunomodulatory treatments

As our understanding of post-viral fatigue evolves, so too will our ability to diagnose, manage, and potentially prevent this challenging condition. Staying informed about the latest research developments can provide hope and guidance for those navigating the complexities of post-viral fatigue.

Living with Post-Viral Fatigue: Adapting to a New Normal

For many individuals, living with post-viral fatigue requires significant lifestyle adjustments. Learning to navigate daily life while managing symptoms can be challenging, but with the right strategies, it’s possible to maintain a good quality of life.

Practical Tips for Daily Living

• Implementing energy pacing techniques to avoid overexertion
• Creating a structured daily routine that balances activity with rest
• Prioritizing tasks and learning to delegate when necessary
• Exploring adaptive technologies to assist with daily activities
• Maintaining open communication with family, friends, and employers about limitations and needs

Adapting to life with post-viral fatigue often involves redefining personal goals and expectations. While this process can be challenging, many individuals find that it leads to a deeper appreciation for their health and a more balanced approach to life.

The Role of Nutrition and Exercise in Managing Post-Viral Fatigue

While nutrition and exercise cannot cure post-viral fatigue, they can play a significant role in managing symptoms and supporting overall health. Developing a tailored approach to diet and physical activity is crucial for individuals dealing with this condition.

Nutritional Considerations

• Focusing on anti-inflammatory foods to support immune function
• Ensuring adequate hydration to combat fatigue
• Balancing macronutrients to maintain stable energy levels
• Considering supplements under medical supervision to address potential deficiencies

Approaching Exercise with Caution

Exercise can be beneficial for some individuals with post-viral fatigue, but it’s essential to approach physical activity carefully to avoid exacerbating symptoms. Gradual, paced increases in activity levels, often referred to as graded exercise therapy, may be recommended under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

It’s crucial to listen to your body and avoid pushing beyond your limits, as overexertion can lead to symptom flares. Working with a physical therapist or exercise physiologist experienced in post-viral fatigue can help develop a safe and effective activity plan.

The Importance of Sleep in Post-Viral Fatigue Recovery

Quality sleep plays a vital role in managing post-viral fatigue, yet many individuals with this condition struggle with sleep disturbances. Addressing sleep issues can significantly impact overall well-being and symptom management.

Strategies for Improving Sleep Quality

• Establishing a consistent sleep schedule
• Creating a relaxing bedtime routine
• Optimizing the sleep environment (temperature, darkness, quietness)
• Limiting exposure to blue light from electronic devices before bedtime
• Exploring relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or guided imagery

For some individuals, working with a sleep specialist may be beneficial in addressing persistent sleep issues. Improving sleep quality can have a cascading positive effect on other symptoms of post-viral fatigue, potentially accelerating the recovery process.

Navigating Work and Education with Post-Viral Fatigue

Managing post-viral fatigue while maintaining work or educational commitments can be challenging. However, with appropriate accommodations and strategies, many individuals can continue to pursue their professional or academic goals.

Workplace Accommodations

• Flexible work hours or remote work options
• Ergonomic workstation adjustments
• Regular break periods for rest
• Reduced workload or modified job responsibilities

Educational Adaptations

• Extended deadlines for assignments
• Modified course loads
• Access to lecture recordings or notes
• Accommodations for exams, such as extra time or rest breaks

Open communication with employers, educators, and disability support services is crucial in securing necessary accommodations. Understanding your rights under disability laws can help ensure you receive appropriate support in work and educational settings.

The Future of Post-Viral Fatigue Research and Treatment

As awareness of post-viral fatigue grows, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, research into this condition is expanding rapidly. This increased focus holds promise for improved understanding, diagnosis, and treatment options in the future.

Promising Areas of Research

• Development of more sensitive diagnostic tools
• Investigation of potential antiviral treatments
• Exploration of immunomodulatory therapies
• Study of long-term outcomes and potential risk factors

As research progresses, it’s likely that our approach to post-viral fatigue will become more nuanced and personalized. This could lead to more targeted treatments and improved outcomes for individuals affected by this challenging condition.

While living with post-viral fatigue can be difficult, ongoing research and improved understanding offer hope for better management strategies and potential treatments in the future. By staying informed about the latest developments and working closely with healthcare providers, individuals with post-viral fatigue can navigate their recovery journey with greater confidence and support.

Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and Recovery Tim

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Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

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Was this helpful?

Post-viral fatigue refers to lingering feelings of extreme tiredness after a viral illness. Doctors are still trying to learn more about it.

Fatigue is an overall feeling of tiredness or exhaustion. It’s completely normal to experience it from time to time. But sometimes it can linger for weeks or months after you’ve been sick with a viral infection, such as the flu. This is known as post-viral fatigue.

Read on to learn more about the symptoms of post-viral fatigue and what you can do to manage them.

The main symptom of post-viral fatigue is a significant lack of energy. You might also feel exhausted, even if you’ve been getting plenty of sleep and resting.

Other symptoms that can accompany post-viral fatigue include:

• concentration or memory problems
• sore throat
• headache
• swollen lymph nodes
• unexplained muscle or joint pain

Post-viral fatigue seems to be triggered by a viral infection. In learning about your condition, you might come across information about chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). This is a complex condition that causes extreme tiredness for no clear reason. While some consider CFS and post-viral fatigue to be the same thing, post-viral fatigue has an identifiable underlying cause (a viral infection).

Viruses that seem to sometimes cause post-viral fatigue include:

• Epstein-Barr virus
• Human herpes virus 6
• human immunodeficiency virus
• enterovirus
• rubella
• West Nile virus
• Ross River virus

Experts aren’t sure why some viruses lead to post-viral fatigue, but it may be related to:

• an unusual response to viruses that can remain latent within your body
• increased levels of proinflammatory cytokines, which promote inflammation
• nervous tissue inflammation

Learn more about the connection between your immune system and inflammation.

Post-viral fatigue is often hard to diagnose because fatigue is a symptom of many other conditions. It may take some time to rule out other potential causes of your fatigue. Before seeing a doctor, try to write down a timeline of your symptoms. Make a note of any recent illnesses, when your other symptoms went away, and how long you’ve felt fatigued. If you see a doctor, make sure to give them this information.

They’ll likely start by giving you a thorough physical exam and asking about your symptoms. Keep in mind that they might also ask about any mental health symptoms you have, including those of depression or anxiety. Ongoing fatigue is sometimes a symptom of these.

A blood and urine test can help to rule out common sources of fatigue, including hypothyroidism, diabetes, or anemia.

Other tests that can help to diagnose post-viral fatigue include:

• an exercise stress test to rule out cardiovascular or respiratory conditions
• a sleep study to rule out sleep disorders, such as insomnia or sleep apnea, which could be affecting the quality of your sleep

Experts don’t fully understand why post-viral fatigue happens, so there aren’t any clear treatments. Instead, treatment usually focuses on managing your symptoms.

Managing the symptoms of post-viral fatigue often includes:

• taking over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen (Advil), to help with any lingering pain
• using a calendar or organizer to help with memory or concentration issues
• reducing daily activities to conserve energy
• energizing relaxation techniques, such as yoga, meditation, massage therapy, and acupuncture

Post-viral fatigue can be extremely frustrating, especially if you’ve already been dealing with a viral infection. This, combined with the limited information about the condition, can make you feel isolated or hopeless. Consider joining a group of others experiencing similar symptoms, either in your local area or online.

The American Myalgic Encephalomyelitis and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Society offers a variety of resources on their website, including lists of support groups and advice on how to talk to your doctor about your condition. The Solve ME/CFS also has many resources.

Recovery from post-viral fatigue varies from person to person, and there’s no clear timeline. Some recover to the point where they can return to all of their daily activities after a month or two, while others continue to have symptoms for years.

According to a small 2017 study in Norway, getting an early diagnosis may improve recovery. A better prognosis is often observed for people that receive an early diagnosis. Lower recovery rates are associated with people who have had the condition for a longer period of time.

If you think you might have post-viral fatigue, try to see a doctor as soon as possible. If you have limited access to healthcare and live in the United States, you can find free or low-cost health centers here.

Post-viral fatigue refers to lingering feelings of extreme tiredness after a viral illness. It’s a complex condition that experts don’t fully understand, which can make diagnosis and treatment difficult. However, there are several things that can help to manage your symptoms. You may have to try a few things before you find something that works.

Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and Recovery Tim

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

Post-viral fatigue refers to lingering feelings of extreme tiredness after a viral illness. Doctors are still trying to learn more about it.

Fatigue is an overall feeling of tiredness or exhaustion. It’s completely normal to experience it from time to time. But sometimes it can linger for weeks or months after you’ve been sick with a viral infection, such as the flu. This is known as post-viral fatigue.

Read on to learn more about the symptoms of post-viral fatigue and what you can do to manage them.

The main symptom of post-viral fatigue is a significant lack of energy. You might also feel exhausted, even if you’ve been getting plenty of sleep and resting.

Other symptoms that can accompany post-viral fatigue include:

• concentration or memory problems
• sore throat
• headache
• swollen lymph nodes
• unexplained muscle or joint pain

Post-viral fatigue seems to be triggered by a viral infection. In learning about your condition, you might come across information about chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). This is a complex condition that causes extreme tiredness for no clear reason. While some consider CFS and post-viral fatigue to be the same thing, post-viral fatigue has an identifiable underlying cause (a viral infection).

Viruses that seem to sometimes cause post-viral fatigue include:

• Epstein-Barr virus
• Human herpes virus 6
• human immunodeficiency virus
• enterovirus
• rubella
• West Nile virus
• Ross River virus

Experts aren’t sure why some viruses lead to post-viral fatigue, but it may be related to:

• an unusual response to viruses that can remain latent within your body
• increased levels of proinflammatory cytokines, which promote inflammation
• nervous tissue inflammation

Learn more about the connection between your immune system and inflammation.

Post-viral fatigue is often hard to diagnose because fatigue is a symptom of many other conditions. It may take some time to rule out other potential causes of your fatigue. Before seeing a doctor, try to write down a timeline of your symptoms. Make a note of any recent illnesses, when your other symptoms went away, and how long you’ve felt fatigued. If you see a doctor, make sure to give them this information.

They’ll likely start by giving you a thorough physical exam and asking about your symptoms. Keep in mind that they might also ask about any mental health symptoms you have, including those of depression or anxiety. Ongoing fatigue is sometimes a symptom of these.

A blood and urine test can help to rule out common sources of fatigue, including hypothyroidism, diabetes, or anemia.

Other tests that can help to diagnose post-viral fatigue include:

• an exercise stress test to rule out cardiovascular or respiratory conditions
• a sleep study to rule out sleep disorders, such as insomnia or sleep apnea, which could be affecting the quality of your sleep

Experts don’t fully understand why post-viral fatigue happens, so there aren’t any clear treatments. Instead, treatment usually focuses on managing your symptoms.

Managing the symptoms of post-viral fatigue often includes:

• taking over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen (Advil), to help with any lingering pain
• using a calendar or organizer to help with memory or concentration issues
• reducing daily activities to conserve energy
• energizing relaxation techniques, such as yoga, meditation, massage therapy, and acupuncture

Post-viral fatigue can be extremely frustrating, especially if you’ve already been dealing with a viral infection. This, combined with the limited information about the condition, can make you feel isolated or hopeless. Consider joining a group of others experiencing similar symptoms, either in your local area or online.

The American Myalgic Encephalomyelitis and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Society offers a variety of resources on their website, including lists of support groups and advice on how to talk to your doctor about your condition. The Solve ME/CFS also has many resources.

Recovery from post-viral fatigue varies from person to person, and there’s no clear timeline. Some recover to the point where they can return to all of their daily activities after a month or two, while others continue to have symptoms for years.

According to a small 2017 study in Norway, getting an early diagnosis may improve recovery. A better prognosis is often observed for people that receive an early diagnosis. Lower recovery rates are associated with people who have had the condition for a longer period of time.

If you think you might have post-viral fatigue, try to see a doctor as soon as possible. If you have limited access to healthcare and live in the United States, you can find free or low-cost health centers here.

Post-viral fatigue refers to lingering feelings of extreme tiredness after a viral illness. It’s a complex condition that experts don’t fully understand, which can make diagnosis and treatment difficult. However, there are several things that can help to manage your symptoms. You may have to try a few things before you find something that works.

Symptoms of acute respiratory infections and SARS. Treatment of Protracted Colds

ARVI is an acute respiratory viral disease, a disease of a viral nature that affects the respiratory tract. ARI is an acute respiratory disease or any inflammatory disease of the respiratory tract. Few of us can boast of the absence of a meeting with these ailments.

In the everyday world we are constantly surrounded by viruses, protozoa, bacteria, fungi. The human body is a place for the reproduction and existence of these life forms. Viruses cannot reproduce in the external environment, since they need a cell; Bacteria, fungi, protozoa can survive in the external environment, but the most comfortable place for their life and reproduction is, no matter how sad it is to admit, our body. When these life forms enter our body, they multiply and cause a respiratory infection.

The human body has a high susceptibility especially to viruses. SARS and ARI are spread by airborne droplets. The source of infection is a sick person who remains contagious for 2-3 days from the onset of the disease, especially when an increase in body temperature is recorded.

You should urgently see a general practitioner if you have:

• Increased body temperature above 38.0°C
• Fever
• Severe general weakness
• There is a severe headache, mainly in the temporal and frontal regions
• Lachrymation, pain in the eyes, especially when moving the eyeballs
• Lachrymation, pain in the eyes, especially when moving the eyeballs
• Photophobia
• Muscle and joint pain
• Painful, hacking cough, chest pain when coughing, streaks of blood appeared in sputum
• Hoarseness of voice appeared

SARS or acute respiratory infections? What are the symptoms of ARVI and ARI?

It is a very common misconception that ARVI and ARI are one and the same. Of course, there are common signs, but there are also differences in the etiological factor and in clinical manifestations.

The causative agent that causes	ARVI is caused by viruses.	ARI is caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, and protozoa.
Onset of the disease	Gradual onset, begins with the onset of malaise, weakness.	A sharp increase in body temperature up to 38 0 C.
Increasing symptoms	The first signs are implicit, the presence of a prodromal period: weakness, headache, malaise. There is an increase in symptoms and their severity for 2-3 days.	Persistence of symptoms, without increasing their severity.
The height of the disease	It occurs on the 3rd-4th day: fever, pronounced acute runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing, pain, sore throat, increased headache, general weakness.	There is no peak period of the disease, the intensity of symptoms persists in one pore.
Runny nose, conjunctivitis, cough	Pronounced.	May be absent or not very pronounced.
Disease duration	5-7 days, in the absence of complications in the form of a secondary infection.	Manifestations of the disease persist for a long period of time, about two weeks (if the patient does not take antibiotic therapy).
Characteristic changes in the blood test	Lymphocytosis, monocytosis	Neutrophilia, shift of the leukocyte formula to the left.
Complications	Uncommon, but not to be neglected: tonsillitis, tracheitis, laryngitis, bronchitis, otitis media, meningitis, glomerulonephritis, bronchitis.	Frequent. Otitis, sinusitis, bronchitis, pneumonia.

IS SARS DANGEROUS?

Any disease can lead to complications.

Complications of acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory viral infections can be: on the part of the respiratory organs – bronchitis, pneumonia, tracheitis. From the ENT organs – laryngitis, rhinitis, sinusitis, frontal sinusitis, otitis, sinusitis. From the side of the central nervous system – encephalitis, meningitis. From the excretory system – glomerulonephritis.

The development of complications depends on the state of the body’s immunity, the age of the patient: children and the elderly, often ill people, are more vulnerable and more difficult to tolerate a respiratory infection.

Complications can be avoided if, at the first symptoms, you immediately seek medical help from a qualified general practitioner who will make a diagnosis and select the correct and individual treatment regimen.

“Acute respiratory viral infection is not as bad as its complications.”

PREVENTION OF ALL VIRAL RESPIRATORY DISEASES AND INFLUENZA got off easy runny nose and cough? Why does someone lie for two weeks with antibiotics with difficulty recovering from complications, and someone – 3-4 days and in the ranks?

Of course, there are a number of factors that affect the frequency and depth of respiratory diseases.

Good immunity is a guarantee that all viruses, bacteria, fungi, protozoa, even if they enter the body, will not cause illness. What should be done to keep the immune system in order?

• Proper nutrition – a healthy diet without fatty, fried, smoked canned foods.
• Healthy lifestyle – avoid smoking, alcohol and other bad habits.
• Compliance with the daily routine – night sleep up to 6-8 hours.
• No stress.

The number of viruses – the onset of the disease is strongly dependent on the number of pathogens that have entered the body. The more viruses that have entered the body, the more likely the onset of the disease is. To avoid this, first of all, contact with a sick person should be avoided, since transmission occurs by airborne droplets. Ventilate the room more often, especially during the period.

The team of the Healthy Motherland Medical Center wishes you and your loved ones to be healthy, have strong immunity and good mood!

Semendyaeva Larisa Dmitrievna General practitioner, gastroenterologist of the highest category Work experience 38 years https://familyhealth. ua/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/0011_DSC_0075.png https://familyhealth.ua/wp-content/ uploads/2019/07/0011_DSC_0075-300×272.png https://familyhealth.ua/doctors/semendyaeva-larisa-dmitrievna/ https://familyhealth.ua/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/pills-of-white -and-blue-color-fall-from-top-to-bottom-on-a-blue-background.jpg There are a number of medications and folk remedies that can help soothe coughs from colds and the flu. https://familyhealth.ua/content/spisok-sredstv-ot-kashlya/ LIST OF COUGH

signs, symptoms, treatment and prevention

Influenza is a severe viral infection that affects men, women and children of all ages and nationalities. Influenza epidemics happen every year, usually during the cold season. In terms of the number of cases in the world, influenza and SARS rank first, the share in the structure of infectious diseases reaches 95%.

Influenza and SARS, gradually undermining health, reduce the average life expectancy of a person by several years. In severe cases of influenza, irreversible damage to the cardiovascular system, respiratory organs, and central nervous system often occurs, provoking heart and vascular diseases, pneumonia, tracheobronchitis, and meningoencephalitis.

Influenza collects the greatest victims among the elderly population groups suffering from chronic diseases.

The influenza virus is very easily transmitted:

• The most common route of transmission is airborne.
• It is also possible that the household route of transmission, for example, through household items.

When coughing, sneezing, talking, particles of saliva, mucus, sputum with pathogenic microflora, including influenza viruses, are ejected from the nasopharynx of a patient or a virus carrier. An infected zone is formed around the patient with a maximum concentration of aerosol particles. The range of their scattering usually does not exceed 2 – 3 m.

What is SARS? How is it different from the flu?

The term “acute respiratory disease” (ARI) or “acute respiratory viral infection” (ARVI) covers a large number of diseases that are largely similar to each other. Their main similarity lies in the way of transmission (they enter the body along with inhaled air through the mouth and nasopharynx) and in a set of symptoms:

• The patient has a fever, sore throat, cough, chills, muscle pain and headache for several days.
• The most common symptom of respiratory disease is a runny nose; it is caused by a number of related viruses known as rhinoviruses.

With recovery, all these symptoms disappear and do not leave behind any traces.

In general, the causative agents of acute respiratory infections are transmitted from person to person through coughing or sneezing of the patient. Any person in close (approximately 1 meter) contact with another person with symptoms of SARS is at risk of exposure to potentially infectious inhaled droplets. Viruses can enter the body (in the eyes, nose or mouth) through the hands when in contact with an infected surface.

Personal hygiene can help prevent the spread of pathogens that cause respiratory infections.

Differences between COVID-19, colds and flu

As you know, the new coronavirus infection COVID-19 is transmitted mainly by airborne droplets. She is characterized by the presence of clinical symptoms of SARS (you can find a detailed educational program from Sevdzdrav at the link – https://sevdz.ru/mednavigator/profilaktika/koronavirus/).

Important! COVID-19 is sometimes asymptomatic, but this does not make the carrier of the virus any less contagious. Especially in such cases, people with chronic diseases suffer.

Visual infographics from Rospotrebnadzor:

Key recommendations for the prevention of influenza and SARS for the population

It is especially important to observe preventive measures now – during the pandemic of a new coronavirus infection.

The self-isolation regime has been canceled, but the pandemic has not disappeared anywhere! We all need to think about our health and the health of those around us.

• Avoid close contact with people who appear unwell, show fever (temperature) and cough.
• Avoid crowded places or reduce time spent in crowded places.
• Avoid touching your mouth and nose.
• Observe hand hygiene – wash hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially when touching the mouth, nose.
• Increase the flow of fresh air into living quarters, open windows as often as possible.
• Wear a mask when in contact with a sick person.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including adequate sleep, eating “healthy” foods, and being physically active.

Preventive immunization of the population (vaccination) is the best prevention of influenza. In turn, the main danger of refusing to vaccinate is the possibility of getting the flu when in contact with a sick person. In addition, a person who has not been vaccinated is potentially dangerous to others, as he is a likely carrier of an infectious disease.

In detail: why vaccination is needed and where to get a flu shot in Sevastopol.

Recommendations for people with symptoms of SARS

• If you feel unwell, stay at home and follow the recommendations of the doctor, if possible, keep a distance (1 meter) from healthy people.
• Rest and drink plenty of fluids.
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing with a handkerchief or other suitable material. Dispose of this material immediately after use or wash it. Wash your hands immediately after contact with secretions from the respiratory tract!
• Wear a mask if you are in the common area of ​​the house near other people.
• Tell your family and friends about the illness.

Important! Medical masks

Recommendations for the use of protective medical masks:

• The wearing of medical masks is mandatory for persons who have close contact with a sick patient.
• Carefully put on the mask so that it covers the mouth and nose, and tie it tightly so that there are as few gaps between the face and the mask as possible.
• Avoid touching the mask when using it.
• After touching a used mask, for example when removing it, wash your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Replace the used mask with a new, clean, dry mask as soon as the used mask becomes damp (wet).
• Masks intended for single use should not be reused.
• Throw away disposable masks after each use and dispose of them immediately after removal.

Home care advice

• Isolate the patient from others by at least 1 meter from others.
• Cover your mouth and nose when caring for the sick using masks.
• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after each contact with a sick person. Allocate separate towels for each family member.
• Other than the caregivers, the sick person should not be visited by other visitors.
• If possible, have only one adult in the home care for the sick.
• Avoid being cared for by a pregnant woman.
• Constantly ventilate the room in which the patient is located.
• Keep the room clean with detergents.

Advice for parents of sick children

• Seek medical attention if your child is sick.
• Leave a sick child at home unless he needs medical attention.
• Give your child plenty of fluids (juice, water).
• Create a comfortable environment for the child, peace is extremely important.
• If your child has a fever, sore throat, and body aches, you can give him an antipyretic medicine that the doctor prescribes according to the patient’s age.
• Keep tissues and tissue basket within reach of the patient.
• Teach the children to wash their hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds.