Blog > Signs Of The Flu Seniors Shouldn’t Ignore

Signs Of The Flu Seniors Shouldn’t Ignore

Flu season is around the corner, and seniors are particularly vulnerable to the flu. Seniors should get their flu shot as soon as they can. But because the flu can cause seniors to become seriously ill seniors should also be aware of the early symptoms of the flu. Seniors that do come down with the flu need to get treatment right away. Modern flu treatments that are given as soon as seniors start displaying symptoms can cut the duration of the flu and make symptoms less severe for seniors. It’s also recommended that seniors have in-home care services during flu season.

If seniors do get sick in-home care will help seniors while they are sick and make sure that seniors have a way to get medical help if they need it. There are a lot of benefits seniors get from in-home care, including peace of mind.

The most common symptoms of the flu that seniors should take seriously include:

Fever

A high fever is one of the hallmark symptoms of the flu. Seniors with the flu often experience temperatures above 100.4°F (38°C). Fever is the body’s natural response to infection and signifies that the immune system is fighting off the virus.

Chills and Sweating

Seniors with the flu may experience chills and intermittent sweating, as the body attempts to regulate its temperature in response to the fever.

Cough

A persistent cough is a common flu symptom in seniors. This cough is often dry at first but may progress to produce mucus over time.

Sore Throat

A sore or scratchy throat can accompany the flu and may worsen as the illness progresses.

Runny or Stuffy Nose

Seniors with the flu may experience nasal congestion, a runny nose, or postnasal drip, contributing to discomfort and difficulty breathing.

Headache

Flu-related headaches can be intense and persistent. They often develop due to inflammation and increased pressure within the sinuses.

Muscle and Joint Pain

Seniors may experience muscle aches and joint pain, commonly referred to as myalgia and arthralgia. These symptoms can be severe and contribute to overall discomfort.

Fatigue

The flu can cause extreme fatigue, leaving seniors feeling exhausted and weak. This fatigue can persist for several weeks, even after other symptoms have resolved.

Weakness

Seniors may notice a significant loss of strength and endurance, making it challenging to carry out daily activities.

Chest Discomfort

Some seniors with the flu may experience chest discomfort, which can range from mild to severe. This may be due to coughing, muscle strain, or inflammation of the chest lining.

Shortness of Breath

In some cases, the flu can lead to shortness of breath, especially in seniors with underlying respiratory conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

While less common in seniors, the flu can sometimes cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Confusion or Cognitive Changes

Seniors with the flu may experience changes in cognitive function, such as confusion or difficulty concentrating. This can be more pronounced in older adults and is sometimes referred to as “flu brain.”

Dizziness

Flu-related weakness, dehydration, and changes in blood pressure can lead to dizziness in some seniors.

In-Home Care Haile Plantation FL – Signs Of The Flu Seniors Shouldn’t Ignore

Loss of Appetite

A decreased appetite is common in seniors with the flu. It’s essential to encourage fluid intake and small, nutritious meals to prevent dehydration and malnutrition.

Complications

Seniors are at a higher risk of developing complications from the flu, including pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections, and worsening of underlying health conditions like heart disease or diabetes.