Summer colds seem to start with either a mild throat irritation or sniffles. Some folks have an ear infection. Seasonal allergies can be confused with summer colds
Swine Flu Differs from a Summer Cold
This influenza illness skips early symptoms such as a scratchy throat or single sneeze. It has been described as coming on like a freight train. The extreme headache is accompanied (or caused) by a rapidly rising fever. There are chills as the body tries to control its temperature apparatus.
Joints ache slightly at first and separately, until the larger joints seem inflamed and tender. Prior to any nasal congestion, there is a feeling of having perhaps slept wrong or exercised too hard. Wrists, upper body, neck and shoulders, sometimes-lower extremities too, hurt with a fibromyalgia-like tenderness. Tylenol or similar medication alleviates some of the pain.
Progression of Symptoms for Swine Flu
There is fatigue and sleep comes easily. Initially there is surprisingly little head congestion. A spasmodic dry cough appears with each deep inhalation. This contradicts symptoms of the common cold or common summer cold. The fever can rapidly rise to 104 degrees F or hover around 102 degrees before gradually declining. As the fever recedes, congestion seems to increase. There is postnasal drainage and sniffling. Popular over-the-counter (OTC) medicines like Nyquil or Dayquil offer some relief.
Thirst needs are normal and appetite may be slightly decreased but eating is still possible and encouraged.
Anti-virals, Protection and Prophylaxis
Unfortunately by the time the moderately ill person has decided the fatigue isn’t due to lack of sleep or the headache due to stress, it is often outside the 48-hour window for the efficacy of either Tami-flu or Relenza. The virus will run its course. For those exposed but not yet ill, the prophylaxis prescription may be appropriate.
Hand washing can help prevent the spread from one person to another and hand sanitizers have been beneficial. Masks are of value if in contact with the public but this should not be necessary since one is advised to stay home. The average person will recover with rest and nutrients within the week. The fatigue may linger as it does with Influenza A. Some complain of a residual cough after the others symptoms abate.
The Swine Flu Increases in North America
US has more than 37000 confirmed cases, the largest number reported in the world per the CDC. Canada has over 9700 (Public Health Agency of Canada). These are tested and recorded cases. Many cases are not recorded or even seen by health care specialists. The individual stays home from work or school a day or 2 and returns to the regular world as his health improves or necessity dictates. Many continue to work and interact but at a lesser intensity attributing the feeling of general malaise to the common cold. Thus the epidemic grows.
Prognosis for Individuals and Society
The majority of people infected with H1N1 will have a normal recovery with some residual but resolving fatigue. Those who have weakened immune systems or secondary illnesses may need more medical assistance to recover. The onslaught of a new flu season this fall coupled with the pandemic H1N1 novel influenza subset will be challenging. Hopefully the new flu vaccines will cover the strains and most people will avail themselves of this method of maintaining their health.
Amy Andersen - Amy Andersen, MSN, ARNP, family & pediatrics certified, practices yoga and explores the inter-relationships of mind body fitness and ...
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