The best tip for influenza detection would be to have a physician make an accurate diagnosis. If the doctor suspects influenza, he may use a test that can positively identify the virus. Symptoms such as fever, headache, and body aches may mimic other illnesses, which is why a test may be best for certain influenza detection.
As common influenza symptoms can also indicate many other illnesses and medical conditions, influenza detection can sometimes be difficult. Even when respiratory symptoms such as coughing, runny nose, or stuffy nose are present, they may not necessarily be caused by influenza, commonly referred to as the flu. Sneezing and coughing without fever are not typical of influenza, although there are exceptions. Influenza, however, is often marked by moderate to high fever, body aches, and extreme fatigue.
Influenza A, also known as the H1N1 virus, does not always produce the same symptoms as other strains of flu. The H1N1 virus often causes more severe symptoms. Therefore, patients who are infected may not realize it until complications set in, which also makes influenza detection difficult.
There is another good way of distinguishing influenza from the common cold or other viral infections. If symptoms begin slowly and increase at a gradual pace, this is not typical of the flu. Influenza tends to strike without any warning, producing severe symptoms very suddenly, unlike the common cold. Many of these accelerated symptoms will occur all at once.
Early influenza detection can prevent complications such as pneumonia. If other illnesses are suspected, requesting a rapid test for influenza is a good idea and may be recommended. This test should be performed at the earliest signs of symptoms for best results.
The rapid test for influenza is typically done with a throat culture or a nasal swab. The culture is prepared on a slide. In the laboratory, it will be examined under a microscope to positively identify the type of virus that is suspected. Once a positive diagnosis has been made, the patient will be able to treat his symptoms more effectively. Treatment may include the use of prescription anti-viral drugs to lessen the severity of the illness.
Diagnosing seasonal flu is especially important in the elderly or those with chronic illnesses such as asthma or heart disease. Elderly people have a greater risk for complications from the flu, which for them can be life threatening. If an elderly person exhibits symptoms of influenza, he should be examined by his physician who can determine whether he should have a rapid test for influenza.
