Flu: 5 shocking after effects

Most people are back to their normal selves a week after getting the flu.

Sometimes, health complications can extend beyond the initial infection.

Contact your doctor immediately if you have any unusual or severe symptoms following or during an flu infection.

Five possible side effects may appear in the weeks and months following a flu infection.

Increased risk of heart attacks and stroke

A study has shown that a person’s risk of stroke or heart attack increases within the first seven days after being diagnosed with flu.

This doesn’t mean that flu can cause heart attacks or strokes. The flu (and the immune system’s reaction to it) can worsen heart conditions, and trigger cardiovascular events. Heart disease patients are more likely to have complications or be hospitalized when they get the flu.

If you have any symptoms that could indicate a stroke or heart attack, contact emergency services right away.

Pneumonia & Other Secondary Infections

Our immune systems are generally pretty good at fighting the influenza virus. This fight can deplete your immune system, making you susceptible to additional infections and complications.

Pneumonia, the most common secondary flu infection, is caused by the influenza virus. This is a potentially life-threatening lung infection. Other secondary infection includes bronchitis and bacterial sinusitis.

Muscle Aches & Joint Pain

Many people who suffer from flu experience joint and muscle pain.

Your immune system triggers an inflammation response in order to fight the virus and heal injured tissues. This inflammation can lead to pain and discomfort that persists for several weeks or months following the initial infection.

Consult your doctor if the pain is severe or long-lasting. If it prevents you from performing everyday activities, discuss with him further treatment options.

Weakness, Fatigue and Weakness

While it’s common to feel tired and weak when fighting the flu, this fatigue can last for several weeks or months after your initial infection.

You should also keep moving throughout the day with gentle stretches and walks.

It is particularly important for older individuals, who are more susceptible to muscle weakness and falling. Flu can lead to a downward spiral that leads to inactivity, degeneration of muscles, and an increased risk of fractures and falls.

Malaise and Brain Fog

Mental and emotional health can be affected by illness.

You may have difficulty remembering things, making decisions, or thinking. You might find it difficult to focus or understand everyday conversations.

Flu can also cause feelings of anxiety, depression or stress. A general feeling of malaise and apathy may also accompany the flu.

The cognitive, emotional and physical symptoms of infection can last for several weeks or even months. Contact your doctor if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.