Typhoid Symptoms & Precautions You Must Know
Typhoid Symptoms & Precautions You Must Know

Typhoid Symptoms & Precautions You Must Know If you thought that cold, flu, malaria and dengue are the only diseases common during the monsoon, think again. Apart from air borne and mosquito borne diseases, incidences of water borne diseases like typhoid, diarrhoea and cholera also get rampant. Here are the typhoid symptoms and precautions that you must know in order to safeguard yourself and your loved ones. Typhoid is a bacterial disease that leads to severe digestive issues. It is caused by consuming any food item or drink that is contaminated by the bacteria salmonella typhi. The common typhoid symptoms in its early stage would include: Prolonged high fever (103 – 104 degree F) Severe pain in the stomach or abdomen Headache Diarrhoea (mostly in children) Constipation (mostly in adults) Reduced appetite Pinkish rash called rose spots If not treated immediately, the symptoms can worsen and one could also experience the following: Feeling perpetually exhausted Pale skin Vomiting blood Internal bleeding In some cases it could be fatal as it can lead to peritonitis if not treated in time. Peritonitis is a medical emergency condition when the typhoid bacteria enter the peritoneum (lining of the abdomen). Since, unlike other organs, peritoneum can’t defend itself from infections, the health deteriorates rapidly and leads to multiple organ failure. That is why consult your doctor without delay if you observe any of the aforesaid symptoms. Although typhoid is curable, it’s always better to prevent it. Here are the monsoon precautions you must keep in mind to keep typhoid at bay: Drink only boiling water as heat kills as many germs as possible. Avoid drinking water outside or at places where you aren’t sure of the source of the water. That’s why it’s safe to avoid cool beverages and juices from food joints, especially roadside vendors. Always carry your own water bottle while on the go. Avoid eating outside food, especially salads and wet dishes because if the vegetables or meat used are washed with contaminated water, it can lead to typhoid. Moreover if the person preparing the food has typhoid and doesn’t wash his hands properly after using the loo, the bacteria can get transmitted into the food. Make sure to clean your water puriifier and water tank on a regular basis to prevent the growth of germs. Wash your hands properly after using a public toilet. Dr. Sowjanya Reddy, Internal Medicine (Uppal, Apollo Clinic) warns, “Typhoid bacteria can spread through coming into contact with the stool of an infected person. So be very careful while using a public toilet. “ Refrain from having oral or anal sex with a person who has typhoid or who has recently recovered from it.

Artificial Disc Replacement

Artificial Disc Replacement Back pain is a common issue affecting millions worldwide, primarily due to degenerative changes in the spinal discs. While conservative treatments are often effective initially, severe cases may necessitate surgical intervention. Artificial Disc Replacement (ADR) offers a modern alternative to traditional spinal fusion techniques, providing pain relief and helping restore natural spinal motion. This procedure involves replacing damaged discs with artificial implants, aiming for better recovery times, pain relief, and overall quality of life. Discover how ADR transcends traditional treatments to offer long-term relief from chronic back pain. What is Artificial Disc Replacement? Artificial Disc Replacement is a procedure used to address back pain by replacing the damaged disc between the vertebrae with an artificial one. It is typically recommended for patients suffering from chronic back pain while maintaining spinal motion. Unlike traditional spinal fusion, which restricts movement, ADR aims to preserve spinal function. This advanced approach, employed by leading spine surgeons, promises to improve patient outcomes by reducing pain and enhancing quality of life through maintained spinal mobility. Who Needs Artificial Disc Replacement? Artificial Disc Replacement is suitable for individuals experiencing severe back pain due to damaged spinal discs. Conditions that may warrant ADR include: Degenerative Disc Disease: This condition involves long-term deterioration of the spinal discs, leading to pain and stiffness. ADR replaces the damaged disc with an artificial one to alleviate pain and improve mobility. Disc Herniation: When a disc deteriorates, it can put pressure on nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness. ADR replaces the problematic disc to relieve pressure on the nerves. Discogenic Back Pain: This type of pain originates from the discs themselves, not just the nerves around them. ADR aims to replace the painful disc with an artificial one to alleviate pain and enhance mobility. Failure of Other Treatments: If conservative treatments like physical therapy or medications have not provided relief, ADR may be a viable option for improvement. Good Spinal Health: For ADR to be effective, the spine should be in good condition to ensure the procedure restores back functionality and improves movement. Desire for Natural Movement: Unlike fusion surgeries that restrict spinal motion, ADR allows for more natural spine movement. It is a suitable choice for those who want to maintain flexibility and avoid stiffness. How Does Artificial Disc Replacement Work? The ADR procedure involves several steps: Preparation: Before surgery, your doctor will evaluate your suitability for ADR using tests such as MRI scans to assess the condition of your spine. Anesthesia: During the procedure, anesthesia is administered to ensure comfort. General anesthesia affects the entire body, while regional anesthesia numbs the area from the waist down. Incision: A small incision is made in the back to access the affected disc, with careful movement of muscles and tissues. Disc Removal: The surgeon removes the damaged disc that is compressing nerves, creating space between the vertebrae. Implantation: An artificial disc, designed to mimic the natural disc, is implanted into the space left by the removed disc to restore spinal motion and alleviate pain. Closure: The incision is closed with stitches or staples and dressed to promote healing. Recovery: Patients recover in a monitored area with healthcare professionals. Pain control medication and monitoring are provided, and follow-up visits may be necessary. Physical Therapy: Your doctor may recommend physical therapy exercises to aid in recovery and improve spinal flexibility. Benefits of Artificial Disc Replacement Artificial Disc Replacement offers several advantages over traditional fusion surgery: Motion Preservation: ADR maintains the natural movement of the spine, unlike fusion, which restricts movement by joining two vertebrae. Reduced Adjacent Segment Disease: Fusion surgery can accelerate degeneration of adjacent discs, while ADR helps preserve natural spinal biomechanics and minimize this risk. Faster Recovery: ADR generally involves less tissue trauma compared to fusion surgery, leading to quicker recovery times and preserved spinal motion. Improved Quality of Life: Many patients experience reduced pain and enhanced function after ADR, leading to better quality of life and patient satisfaction. Conclusion Artificial Disc Replacement represents a significant advancement over traditional spinal fusion. By allowing for natural spinal movement and reducing the risk of adjacent segment disease, ADR provides a promising option for long-term relief from chronic back pain. With faster recovery times and enhanced quality of life, ADR has established itself as a leading choice for patients seeking effective treatment for debilitating spinal conditions. This innovative approach not only addresses immediate symptoms but also promotes long-term spinal health and satisfaction.

The Role of Nutrition in Boosting Immunity and Helpful Tips
The Role of Nutrition in Boosting Immunity and Helpful Tips

The Role of Nutrition in Boosting Immunity and Helpful Tips In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining good health has become a top priority. The ongoing pandemic has highlighted the importance of a strong immune system. While there’s no single solution for perfect health, proper nutrition plays a crucial role in boosting immunity and preventing illnesses. In this blog, we’ll explore how nutrition contributes to a stronger immune system and offer practical tips for incorporating immune-boosting foods into your daily diet. The Challenges In our busy lives, prioritizing nutrition can be difficult. Fast food, processed snacks, and sugary drinks have become common, often lacking essential nutrients and potentially weakening our immune system over time. Additionally, misinformation about nutrition can make it challenging to navigate conflicting advice. The Power of Nutrition A well-balanced diet is fundamental to a healthy immune system. Nutrients from food play a crucial role in supporting the body’s defense mechanisms. Here are some key nutrients and their sources that can help boost your immunity: – Vitamin C: This vitamin supports the production of white blood cells, which are vital for the immune system. Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are excellent sources of vitamin C. – Vitamin D: Essential for a robust immune response, vitamin D can be obtained from sunlight. It’s also found in fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, as well as fortified dairy products. – Zinc: This mineral is important for maintaining an optimal immune response. Foods rich in zinc include lean meats, legumes, nuts, and seeds. – Antioxidants: Found in colorful fruits and vegetables, antioxidants protect cells from damage caused by harmful free radicals. Include berries, spinach, kale, and bell peppers in your diet. – Probiotics: A healthy gut is crucial for a strong immune system. Probiotics, present in yogurt, kefir, and fermented foods, help maintain a healthy balance of good bacteria in the gut. The Solution Adopting a balanced, nutrient-rich diet can support your immune system and overall health. Here are some tips to boost immunity through nutrition: – Load up on colorful fruits and vegetables: Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, fruits and vegetables are essential for a strong immune system. Aim for at least five servings per day and include a variety of colors to maximize nutritional benefits. – Include lean protein sources: Protein is vital for producing antibodies that combat infections. Choose lean meats like chicken, turkey, and fish, or plant-based alternatives like legumes, tofu, and tempeh. – Don’t forget healthy fats: Incorporate sources of healthy fats such as avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil. These fats help reduce inflammation and support immune function. – Prioritize whole grains: Whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, oats, and whole-wheat bread are rich in fiber and essential nutrients. They also help regulate blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of chronic diseases. – Stay hydrated: Water is crucial for overall health and immune function. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water per day and limit sugary beverages.

Different Types of Spine Surgery
Different Types of Spine Surgery

Different Types of Spine Surgery If you’re dealing with persistent lower back pain, spine surgery might be a necessary solution. Advances in medical technology offer various surgical techniques designed to address spinal issues, enhance comfort, and improve quality of life. These techniques range from minimally invasive procedures to more traditional surgeries, each tailored to specific spinal disorders. In this blog, we’ll explore different types of spine surgeries, their benefits, and key considerations. Discover the surgical options available and how they might offer relief from lower back pain. When Might You Need Spine Surgery? Consider spine surgery if you experience any of the following conditions that don’t improve with conservative treatments: – Herniated Discs: Severe pain, numbness, or muscle weakness due to a herniated disc that doesn’t respond to non-surgical treatments might require surgery. – Spinal Stenosis: Pain, weakness, or numbness caused by nerve compression, known as spinal stenosis, may necessitate surgery if symptoms persist. – Scoliosis: Severe scoliosis with worsening curvature or ongoing pain often requires surgical correction. – Degenerative Disc Disease: Persistent pain and restricted mobility from degenerative disc disease may sometimes require surgery. – Fractures: Osteoporosis-related fractures that result in spinal instability or neurological issues may need surgical intervention. – Tumours: Spinal tumours causing pain, neurological problems, or structural instability often require surgical removal. Consulting with a top spine hospital, such as those in Jaipur, is recommended if you suffer from these conditions. Non-Surgical Treatments for Spine Conditions Before considering surgery, you might try the following non-surgical treatments: – Physical Therapy: Exercises and stretches can strengthen the muscles around the spine, enhance flexibility, and alleviate pain. – Medications: Painkillers, NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, and anti-inflammatory drugs can help manage pain and inflammation. – Chiropractic Care: Chiropractors use manual adjustments to reduce pain and improve spinal alignment. – Acupuncture: This technique involves stimulating specific points on the body to reduce pain and promote healing. – Epidural Steroid Injections: These injections deliver anti-inflammatory medication directly to the epidural space to relieve pain. – Heat and Cold Therapy: Heat can relax muscles and increase blood flow, while cold therapy can reduce inflammation and numb acute pain. – Lifestyle Changes: Maintaining a healthy weight, practicing good posture, and avoiding activities that stress the spine can prevent worsening symptoms. – Yoga: Gentle stretches and movements in yoga can improve strength, flexibility, and overall spinal health. Types of Spine Surgery Different types of spine surgeries address various spinal conditions: – Spinal Fusion: This procedure fuses two or more vertebrae to stabilize the spine and prevent painful movement. It’s often used for degenerative disc disease, scoliosis, or spinal instability. – Laminectomy: This surgery involves removing part of the vertebral bone (the lamina) to create more space and relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves, especially for spinal stenosis. – Discectomy: This procedure removes a herniated disc that is pressing on a nerve, providing relief from pain and discomfort. – Foraminotomy: This surgery enlarges the foramen, the passageway for spinal nerves, to relieve nerve compression. – Artificial Disc Replacement: This technique replaces a damaged spinal disc with an artificial one, helping to maintain spinal mobility and alleviate pain. – Kyphoplasty and Vertebroplasty: These minimally invasive procedures inject bone cement into collapsed vertebrae to stabilize them and relieve pain from fractures. – Spinal Decompression: Methods such as microdiscectomy and endoscopic discectomy are used to reduce pressure on spinal nerves. Understanding these surgical options can help you make informed decisions about managing your lower back pain and improving your quality of life.

Causes and Exercises of Physiotherapy to Relieve Lower Back Pain
Causes and Exercises of Physiotherapy to Relieve Lower Back Pain

Causes and Exercises of Physiotherapy to Relieve Lower Back Pain Lower back pain is a leading cause of disability worldwide, affecting millions and making daily activities challenging. However, with the right treatment and exercises, it is possible to manage and even overcome back pain, restoring mobility and returning to a normal life. In this blog, we will explore seven effective physiotherapy exercises for relieving lower back pain and discuss some common causes of this condition. What is Back Pain Physiotherapy? Physiotherapy, or physical therapy, involves specialized exercises and techniques to treat lower back pain. It includes the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of back pain with the goal of reducing pain, improving mobility, and enhancing overall well-being. The Role of Physiotherapy in Back Pain Physiotherapy is essential in managing lower back pain by addressing its root causes and promoting recovery. Through targeted exercises, stretches, and manual techniques, physiotherapists help patients regain strength, flexibility, and function in the affected area. Consulting with a spine specialist or physiotherapist, such as those at ML Center, the top orthopedic hospital in Jaipur, can be crucial for effective treatment. Causes of Lower Back Pain Lower back pain can arise from various causes. Some common ones include: – Improper Lifting Techniques: Sudden movements or incorrect lifting can strain muscles and cause back pain. – Herniated Discs: Discs that protrude or rupture can compress nearby nerves, leading to pain. – Degenerative Disc Disease: Age-related degeneration of spinal discs can increase the risk of back pain. – Poor Posture: Sitting or standing incorrectly can contribute to back pain. – Osteoarthritis: This condition can lead to lower back pain. – Abnormal Spinal Curvature: Uneven stress due to abnormal curvature can cause pain and functional limitations. Top 7 Physiotherapy Exercises for Lower Back Pain Relief Incorporating specific exercises into your routine can offer effective relief from lower back pain and improve mobility. Here are seven physiotherapy exercises for back pain relief that can be performed at home or with a physiotherapist’s guidance: 1. Pelvic Tilt Exercise: – Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Tighten your abdominal muscles, flatten your lower back against the floor, hold for a few seconds, then release. 2. Bridge Exercise: – Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat. Lift your hips off the floor to form a straight line from your shoulders to your knees. Hold the position, then lower your hips back down. 3. Cat-Cow Stretch: – Start on your hands and knees. Arch your back upward (like a cat), then lower your belly toward the floor (like a cow). Repeat this motion to stretch and strengthen your back. 4. Child’s Pose: – Sit back on your heels with your knees apart. Reach your arms forward and lower your chest toward the floor, resting your forehead on the ground. 5. Seated Spinal Twist: – Sit upright with one leg extended and the other knee bent and crossed over the opposite leg. Twist your torso towards the bent knee to stretch and mobilize your spine. 6. Bird Dog Exercise: – Start on your hands and knees. Extend one arm forward and the opposite leg backward, keeping your back flat. Return to the starting position and switch sides. 7. Dead Bug Exercise: – Lie on your back with arms extended toward the ceiling and legs raised with knees bent. Slowly lower one arm and the opposite leg towards the floor, then return to the starting position and repeat on the other side. Conclusion Physiotherapy exercises are an effective way to manage and alleviate lower back pain. By incorporating these exercises into your routine, you can improve your mobility and overall quality of life. Understanding the potential causes of lower back pain and addressing them through physiotherapy can help you live a more active and pain-free life.

Effect of stress on Heart Disease
Effect of stress on Heart Disease

Effect of stress on Heart Disease Stress is an unavoidable part of modern life, stemming from various sources like work, relationships, financial concerns, or health issues. While a certain amount of stress can motivate individuals to accomplish tasks, excessive stress can negatively impact both physical and mental health, particularly heart health. Heart disease encompasses a range of conditions affecting the heart, including coronary artery disease, heart failure, and arrhythmia. Atherosclerosis, the buildup of plaque inside the arteries, is a leading cause of heart disease. This condition narrows and hardens the arteries, potentially leading to heart attacks or strokes. Chronic stress is increasingly recognized as a significant contributor to heart disease. Stress affects the heart in several ways. It triggers physiological changes, such as increased heart rate and blood pressure, which prepare the body for the “fight or flight” response. While this response can be beneficial in short-term survival situations, chronic activation can strain the heart and lead to long-term cardiovascular problems. Additionally, stress can lead to unhealthy behaviors like overeating, smoking, and physical inactivity, which further increase heart disease risk. Stress promotes the development of other risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and obesity. Stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline can constrict blood vessels and elevate blood pressure. This increased pressure can damage blood vessel walls and encourage plaque buildup. Moreover, chronic stress often results in poor eating habits and lack of exercise, contributing to high cholesterol and obesity, which further elevate heart disease risk. Another way stress impacts heart health is through inflammation. Chronic stress triggers an immune response that leads to widespread inflammation. This inflammation can damage arterial walls, contributing to plaque accumulation and a higher risk of heart disease. Elevated levels of inflammatory markers, such as C-reactive protein (CRP), are associated with increased heart disease risk, and chronic stress has been shown to raise CRP levels. Despite these negative effects, stress can be managed to reduce heart disease risk. Effective stress management techniques include regular exercise, relaxation methods such as meditation or yoga, seeking social support, and practicing time management. Exercise helps lower stress and enhances heart health, while relaxation techniques like deep breathing or mindfulness promote relaxation. Support from family and friends alleviates stress and fosters a sense of belonging, and time management strategies, such as setting realistic goals and prioritizing tasks, help maintain a sense of control. In summary, stress can significantly impact heart health by increasing risk factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and obesity, and by triggering inflammation. Managing stress through healthy coping strategies can reduce the risk of heart disease and contribute to a healthier, more balanced life.

Heart-Healthy Habits for Busy Lives
Heart-Healthy Habits for Busy Lives

Heart-Healthy Habits for Busy Lives In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook our heart health. However, small daily changes can make a significant difference. Here are some tips to get you started: 1. Adopt a heart-healthy diet: – Prioritize fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These foods are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals beneficial for heart health. – Limit saturated and trans fats. These fats can increase cholesterol levels, a major risk factor for heart disease. – Opt for lean proteins. Choose fish, poultry, and beans over red meat to reduce saturated fat intake. – Cut back on added sugars. Excess sugar can lead to weight gain, another risk factor for heart issues. 2. Engage in regular exercise: – Aim for 30 minutes most days. Moderate-intensity activities like brisk walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling are ideal. You should be able to talk but not sing during exercise. 3. Maintain a healthy weight: – Even a small weight loss helps. Losing 5-10% of your body weight can positively impact heart health. 4. Quit smoking: – The best move for your heart. Smoking is a leading cause of heart disease, so quitting is crucial for heart health. 5. Manage stress: – Find healthy outlets. Reduce stress through activities like yoga, meditation, or spending time outdoors to help manage blood pressure. 6. Ensure adequate sleep: – Aim for 7-8 hours a night. Quality sleep helps regulate stress hormones that can affect blood pressure and heart rate. 7. Schedule regular checkups: – Monitor heart health. Regular visits to your doctor for blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar checks are essential. 8. Track blood pressure and pulse rate: – Regular monitoring. Check your blood pressure at home at least once a week and note any significant changes. Also, track your pulse rate during exercise to stay within a healthy range. Implementing these changes can significantly improve your heart health and overall well-being.

What Is Heart Block?
What Is Heart Block?

What Is Heart Block? A healthy human heart typically beats between 60 and 100 times per minute. Each heartbeat results from the contraction of the heart muscle, which pushes blood throughout the body. These contractions are usually regulated by electrical signals that travel from the atria to the ventricles or from the upper chambers to the lower chambers of the heart. A partial heart block occurs when these electrical impulses are delayed or interrupted, causing irregular heartbeats. A complete heart block happens when the electrical signals are completely blocked, leading to a heartbeat that may drop to about 40 beats per minute. Heart blocks can vary in severity, with some causing only brief interruptions in the heart’s rhythm, while others can impede blood circulation, making it difficult for muscles and organs, including the brain, to receive adequate oxygen. Depending on the severity, heart block can be dangerous, with third-degree heart blocks potentially exacerbating pre-existing conditions like heart failure, causing loss of consciousness, or even sudden cardiac arrest. Chest pain can also occur. In contrast, coronary heart disease arises when waxy substances build up in the coronary arteries, potentially leading to chest pain, angina, or a heart attack, also known as myocardial infarction. Symptoms of heart block may include: – Slow or irregular heartbeats, or palpitations – Shortness of breath – Lightheadedness or fainting – Chest pain or discomfort – Difficulty exercising due to inadequate blood circulation People with heart block might seem healthy but could have underlying heart issues. The causes of heart block involve disruptions in the electrical impulses that guide heart muscle contractions. These impulses travel through the atrioventricular (AV) node along a pathway that includes the cardiac fibers known as “bundle branch blocks” or the “AV bundle.” This bundle splits into the right and left branches, which conduct impulses to the heart’s ventricles. Damage to one of these branches can result in irregular ventricular contractions and abnormal heart rhythms. Right-sided blocks are generally less severe, while left-sided blocks may indicate a higher risk of coronary artery disease or other heart problems. Treatment for heart block varies based on the underlying cause. Many individuals with bundle branch block do not exhibit symptoms and may not require specific treatment. However, addressing any underlying issues, such as high blood pressure, is important. For individuals with left bundle branch block who experience a heart attack, reperfusion therapy may be used to restore blood flow to blocked arteries. This often involves anti-clotting agents like streptokinase to dissolve blood clots, though these medications carry a risk of bleeding. An artificial pacemaker, a small device implanted under the skin near the collarbone, may be used for patients with a history of syncope. This device, implanted during a 1 to 2-hour surgical procedure under local anesthesia, helps regulate the heart’s rhythm by generating electrical impulses when needed. Pacemakers generally have long-lasting batteries and are not affected by cell phones, personal stereos, or home devices, though individuals with pacemakers should avoid MRI scans.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT FLU?

  WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT FLU? Flu, short for influenza, is a rapidly spreading respiratory illness caused by a virus. It presents with symptoms such as fever, inflammation of the respiratory tract, severe exhaustion, and muscle pain. Seasonal outbreaks occur annually across various states in India. In medical terminology, flu is referred to as Acute Febrile Respiratory Illness (AFRI) or Influenza Like Illness (ILI). Common cold vs. flu It can be challenging to distinguish between the flu and the common cold, as both share symptoms such as body aches, weakness, runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, and chest discomfort. However, the flu is typically characterized by a fever lasting 3 to 4 days, with temperatures ranging from 100 to 102°F, severe headaches, extreme fatigue, and possible complications like bronchitis and pneumonia. Types of flu viruses Influenza viruses come in three types: A, B, and C. These viruses continually change their structure, making it difficult for healthcare providers to keep up with effective treatments. As of March 2015, India had over 33,000 confirmed cases of flu and more than 2,000 deaths. The H1N1 strain, also known as swine flu, is responsible for over 98% of seasonal influenza A cases. Type B influenza also contributes to annual flu epidemics, while type C generally causes milder symptoms and does not usually trigger widespread outbreaks. Prevalence In temperate regions, flu is most common in winter. However, in tropical countries like India, flu occurs year-round, with peak cases often during the rainy season. Young children are particularly susceptible to flu, and they can carry high levels of the virus, potentially spreading it for an extended period. Transmission Flu viruses spread through tiny droplets released into the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. These droplets can infect people within a six-foot radius. Additionally, touching objects contaminated with the virus and then touching your nose, mouth, or eyes can lead to infection. People can transmit the virus from the first day of symptoms up to a week after falling ill, making isolation challenging. Clinical features Common symptoms of flu include fever, which is present in more than 90% of cases, a dry cough, nasal congestion or runny nose, headache, sore throat, muscle aches, fatigue, and extreme exhaustion. In healthy individuals, symptoms typically resolve without treatment within 5 to 8 days. Complications – Respiratory complications: The most common respiratory complication is pneumonia, a bacterial infection of the lungs that causes cough, fever, chills, and other symptoms. Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is another serious complication that reduces oxygen supply to the lungs and blood. Secondary bacterial pneumonia can also complicate flu in both children and adults. – Non-respiratory complications: Though less common, non-respiratory complications can be severe. These include brain damage, inflammation around the heart, muscle tissue degeneration, and kidney failure. Central nervous system complications, more common in children, may involve brain infection and inflammation, spinal cord or bone marrow inflammation, and nerve attacks leading to muscle weakness or paralysis. High-risk groups Individuals at higher risk for developing flu complications include: 1. Children under 5 years old (especially those under 2) 2. Adults aged 65 and older 3. Pregnant women 4. Residents of nursing homes, regardless of age 5. Individuals with weakened immune systems (due to HIV, cancer, transplants, or steroid use) 6. People with specific medical conditions such as asthma, chronic pulmonary diseases, significant cardiac disease, neuromuscular disorders, chronic metabolic diseases (e.g., diabetes), chronic kidney disease, and blood or bone marrow diseases (e.g., sickle cell disease). Diagnosis Diagnosing flu can be challenging, as symptoms may overlap with other respiratory infections. The World Health Organization defines Influenza Like Illness (ILI) as an acute respiratory infection with a measured fever of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher and a cough that started within the last ten days. Lab testing, including samples from nasal discharge, throat swabs, and sputum, can help confirm the diagnosis and guide appropriate treatment. Management principles The management of flu involves supportive care, antiviral drugs, and infection control. – Treatment with antiviral drugs: All cases of highly suspected or lab-confirmed influenza should be treated promptly with antiviral drugs, regardless of vaccination status or illness severity. In children, antiviral medications like oseltamivir (available in capsule or liquid form) and zanamivir (inhaler) can shorten the illness duration by about a day and a half if started within 48 hours of symptom onset. – Prevention of infection: Persons in contact with high-risk individuals, as well as residents of institutions exposed to flu outbreaks, should receive antiviral treatment for prevention. Vaccination Vaccination is essential for preventing influenza and its complications. A yearly flu vaccine is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older. The trivalent inactivated vaccine (TIV) protects against two influenza A viruses (H1N1 and H3N2) and one influenza B virus. It should be administered annually before flu viruses become prevalent in the community. – TIV recommendations: TIV is recommended for all children aged 6 months and older. Children aged 6 months through 8 years require two doses of the vaccine, administered 4 weeks apart. TIV or the Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine (LAIV) should be given to contacts of high-risk individuals, pregnant women, and healthcare professionals.