flu symptoms 2013

flu symptoms 2013 flu symptoms 2013 flu symptoms 2013 flu symptoms 2013 Flu or cold? The symptoms of flu and the common cold can be similar. Here's how to tell the difference: Flu symptoms come on quickly and include fever and aching muscles make you feel too unwell to continue your usual activities Cold symptoms come on gradually affect just your nose and throat are fairly mild so you can still get around and are usually well enough to go to work Flu can give you any of these symptoms: sudden fever - a temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or above dry, chesty cough headache tiredness chills aching muscles limb or joint pain diarrhoea or upset stomach sore throat runny or blocked nose sneezing loss of appetite difficulty sleeping Your symptoms will usually peak after two to three days and you should begin to feel much better within five to eight days. However, you may have a lingering cough and still feel very tired for a further two to three weeks. When to visit your GP If you are otherwise fit and healthy, there is usually no need to visit your GP if you have flu-like symptoms.  The best remedy is to rest at home, keep warm and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. You can take paracetamol or ibuprofen to lower a high temperature and relieve aches. You should visit your GP if you have flu-like symptoms and you: are 65 years of age or over are pregnant have a long-term medical condition, such as diabetes, heart disease, lung disease, kidney or neurological disease have a weakened immune system (the body's natural defence against infection and illness) Flu can be more serious for these groups and antiviral medication may need to be prescribed.