Influenza

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 2, 2024.

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Influenza (the flu) is an infection caused by the influenza virus. The virus spreads through direct contact with someone who has the flu. For example, a person with the virus on his or her hands can spread it by shaking hands with someone. You may be able to spread the flu to others for 1 week or longer after signs or symptoms appear.

WHILE YOU ARE HERE:

Informed consent

is a legal document that explains the tests, treatments, or procedures that you may need. Informed consent means you understand what will be done and can make decisions about what you want. You give your permission when you sign the consent form. You can have someone sign this form for you if you are not able to sign it. You have the right to understand your medical care in words you know. Before you sign the consent form, understand the risks and benefits of what will be done. Make sure all your questions are answered.

An IV

is a small tube placed in your vein that is used to give you medicine or liquids.

You may need extra oxygen

if your blood oxygen level is lower than it should be. You may get oxygen through a mask placed over your nose and mouth or through small tubes placed in your nostrils. Ask your healthcare provider before you take off the mask or oxygen tubing.

Isolation:

You will need to wear a mask to help prevent the spread of the flu to other people. People near you should wear a mask, and they may also wear gloves, goggles, and a gown. People who enter your room should wash their hands before they leave.

Medicines:

• Acetaminophen decreases pain and fever.
• NSAIDs decrease pain and fever.
• Bronchodilators may be given to help open your airways so you can breathe more easily.
• Antivirals help fight an infection caused by a virus.

Treatment:

• Suction helps remove mucus so you can breathe more easily. A small tube is placed in your mouth or nose.
• Nebulizer treatments are medicines that you inhale to help you breathe more easily. The medicines are a mist given through a mouthpiece or mask.
• A ventilator is a machine that gives you oxygen and breathes for you when you cannot breathe well on your own. An endotracheal (ET) tube is put into your mouth or nose and attached to the ventilator. You may need a trach if an ET tube cannot be placed. A trach is a tube put through an incision and into your windpipe.

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

• Tamiflu
• Coricidin HBP Cold & Flu
• Xofluza
• Relenza
• Coricidin HBP Maximum Strength Flu

View more treatment options

RISKS:

You may develop dehydration. If the dehydration becomes severe, it can cause kidney, heart, and brain damage. Asthma, lung disease, and heart disease may get worse when you have the flu. The flu can lead to ear, throat, and sinus infections. If you have a high fever, you may begin to have seizures. You may get lung infections such as pneumonia or bronchitis. You may get an infection in your blood, heart, or brain. The flu can be life-threatening.

CARE AGREEMENT:

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

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