Is it really the flu?

The following is often a complaint heard this time of year: “I had the flu and I was in the bathroom all day!” Is that really the flu? Probably not, reports Extension Educator Susan Harris-Broomfield.
    Myth #1: Having influenza (the flu) means being sick to your stomach, vomiting, and experiencing diarrhea.
    Truth: Many people tend to label stomach or intestinal issues as “the flu”, when really the flu is a respiratory disease, meaning it is in your lungs. Symptoms include fever, chills, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, muscle aches, headache and extreme tiredness. A few individuals, mostly children, might experience vomiting and diarrhea, but most people will not.
    What is the difference between the flu and a bad cold? The flu hits suddenly and forces a person to alter normal daily activity. It can create such exhaustion and achiness that getting out of bed is not a logical option. With a typical cold, life goes on with the inconvenience of cold symptoms.
    Myth #2: A flu shot can make a person sick with the flu.

To read the full story, subscribe to the e-edition online or call the Breeze at 308-394-5389 to subscribe to the print edition.

 

Wauneta Breeze

308-394-5389 (Phone)

324 N. Tecumseh

PO Box 337

Wauneta NE 69045

 

Is it really the flu? | Wauneta Breeze

Error

The website encountered an unexpected error. Please try again later.