Friday, September 11, 2009

Recognize Symptoms Of Bird Flu

Bird flu is a serious virus that commonly affects birds. However, there have been a number of human infections in recent years. And many people are interested in identify the symptoms and prevent this disease, which can be fatal if left untreated. Unfortunately, human infections closely mimic regular flu, which makes the condition difficult to diagnose.


Instructions








1. Notice if you develop a high fever. Persons infected with bird flu typically become ill with a fever. Fevers can develop gradually or suddenly and most people have temperatures higher than 101 degrees.


2. Notice if you have shortness of breath. This type of infection causes inflammation in the lungs, airways and throat. As a result, many sufferers experience breathing difficulties, which can include breathlessness, wheezing and other asthmatic symptoms.


3. Observe if you suffer from a serious cough. Due to the inflammation and post-nasal drainage into the lungs, persons with bird flu develop a deep and painful cough. Often times, the cough is accompanied with a thick mucus discharge.








4. Observe if you experience abdominal pain and loose bowels. Most bird flu symptoms mimic regular flu symptoms. However, abdominal discomfort and diarrhea is a distinct symptom present in bird flu cases.


5. Note if you have ongoing vomiting after meals. Other types of flu rarely causes vomiting. Anyone who experiences flu-like symptoms accompanied with vomiting should see a doctor immediately.


6. Detect bleeding from gums or nose. Another distinct symptom of bird flu is unusual bleeding. Nosebleeds or bleeding gums are common for some people. However, if these new symptoms develop alongside regular flu symptoms, bird flu may be the culprit.

Tags: accompanied with, distinct symptom, human infections, mimic regular, regular symptoms, with bird