A sudden high temperature, body aches and a sore throat are commons symptoms of flu that many of us are all too familiar with. But as the temperature drops and respiratory infections start to climb, Claire Nevinson, superintendent pharmacist at Boots, has highlighted some lesser-known symptoms. She said: “Flu, also known as influenza, is a common viral infection that spreads from person to person.
“You can catch it at any time of year, but it’s more common in winter, as we spend more time indoors and around others. It’s a highly infectious illness and is not the same as a common cold. The symptoms of flu tend to come quickly and can feel more severe. Some of the lesser-known symptoms of flu can include loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping, sore eyes, eye pain or light sensitivity.
“When you’re unwell, your immune system kicks in and starts producing more white blood cells to help fight off a viral infection. This means your body redirects its energy and resources toward fighting off the viral infection. In some cases, this can result in everyday activities, like eating, to take a backseat.
“If you do experience a loss of appetite, it is important to stay hydrated and have well balanced meals to ensure that your body is still getting all the essential nutrients.”
Other flu symptoms highlighted by the NHS including feeling tired of exhausted, a dry cough and a headache. Symptoms are similar for children but they may also suffer from pain their ears, sore eyes, swollen glands, and appear less active.
The most recent national flu and Covid surveillance report from the UK Health Security Agency found influenza activity had increased and the virus was circulating at baseline levels. Covid activity had also increased and was circulating at low levels.
For those who are unlucky enough to catch flu this winter, some symptoms may feel worse at certain times of the day, Ms Nevinson said.
She explained: “A cough is a common symptom of the flu, and it may feel like it’s flaring up whilst you’re asleep. This is because when we lie down, gravity no longer helps to drain mucus from the sinuses and throat. Mucus can begin to pool at the back of the throat which can make a cough worse at night.
“Our immune system’s response to viral infections can sometimes trigger general inflammation of the body. This can sometimes be felt in and around the eyes including feelings of soreness, redness, and tenderness.
“A common symptom of flu is sinus congestion which can cause pain around the eyes. Light sensitivity and watery eyes can also result from irritation and inflammation of the eyes.”
The NHS recommends rest and sleep to aid recovery, and paracetamol and ibuprofen if needed to lower your temperature or treaty aches and pains.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
