Influenza is a relatively common disease and usually lasts between 7 and 10 days. However, when not treated correctly, complications of the flu can make it more serious, leading to death, especially in the most susceptible population groups such as the elderly and people with heart or lung disease.
Main complications of influenza
When the flu is not treated correctly or when the person is within the group most susceptible to influenza, there may be complications such as:
- Severe inflammation of the airways with expectoration of bloody discharge;
- Viral pneumonia, which causes death in less than 48 hours and occurs when the Influenzae virus reaches the lungs, and there may be progression to respiratory failure;
- Bacterial pneumonia, which compromises lung capacity;
- Encephalitis, which is inflammation of the brain that can cause drowsiness, confusion and coma;
- Myocarditis, which is inflammation of the heart muscle, which can produce heart failure;
- Myositis, which is inflammation of muscles.
- Bronchitis, which corresponds to inflammation of the bronchi in which there is coughing and shortness of breath;
- Otitis, which is inflammation in the ear;
- Laryngotracheitis, which is inflammation of the larynx and trachea.
Reye's syndrome is a serious and life-threatening complication that occurs most often in children during influenza B virus epidemics, particularly when they are given aspirin or any medicine containing it. Learn more about Reye's syndrome.
Who is more susceptible?
Those most likely to have complications from the flu are people with chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, respiratory, liver, heart or kidney disease, as well as those with diseases that can compromise the immune system, such as AIDS. In addition, those who are in the treatment of cancer and people over 65 are more likely to develop complications, because the immune system is also compromised.
To avoid complications, it is important to perform the treatment as directed by your doctor. Find out how the flu treatment is done.
