Influenza

Influenza is a respiratory infection caused by the flu viruses, which affects the nose, throat and, at times, the lungs. It usually appears during cold seasons and spreads easily from person to person.

Frequent symptoms:

• Fever and chills
• Body aches and headache
• Cough, sore throat, and congestion
• Significant fatigue

When to see a doctor? An evaluation is worthwhile if the fever is high or prolonged, if there is difficulty breathing, or in people at higher risk such as older adults, pregnant women, or those with chronic diseases.

Which professionals treat it? The general practitioner and the internist usually evaluate respiratory conditions; the infectious disease specialist and the pulmonologist get involved in more complex situations, and the pediatrician treats children. When symptoms worsen or do not subside, seeing a health professional is the best decision.