Are you concerned about swine flu complications? While the current strain of the H1N1 virus is a mild illness in most people, some have developed serious complications. Over 3,000 people worldwide have died of the disease since April 2009.http://www.reuters.com/article/healthNews/idUSTRE58E6NZ20090915 To learn more about how to prevent swine flu complications, please read on.
Disclaimer
The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your doctor before using the information presented here.
Swine Flu / Information Video
This CDC information video provides general information about swine flu. Severe illnesses such as respiratory failure or pneumonia have been reported as complications of swine flu. Swine flu can also cause complications in individuals with chronic medical conditions or weakened immune systems. Swine flu is spread from person to person in the same way as seasonal influenza. (This video was developed before the creation of a the swine flu vaccine, so it erroneously states that here is no vaccine for swine flu).
Swine Flu Complication Preventation
- If you can avoid getting swine flu, you can avoid complications. Stay away from crowds, wash your hands frequently, and get a swine flu vaccine as soon as its available. #If you do get sick, your doctor may prescribe antiviral medication to reduce the intensity of your symptoms.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JRGJ_Qu1dWM
- Any worsening of symptoms are you start to feel better should be taken very seriously, as it may indicate a secondary bacterial infection.http://www.reuters.com/article/domesticNews/idUSTRE58T52D20090930 if you feel you may at risk of bacterial pneumonia, you may want to ask for a pneumonia vaccine at the same time you are vaccinated for seasonal influenza, if the swine flu vaccine is not available yet.http://www.reuters.com/article/domesticNews/idUSTRE58T52D20090930
Introduction
- Preventing complications from the swine flu is essential to one's health, as you can incur other illnesses once your immune system is battling against complications. Above all things, you will want to get to your doctor as soon as you suspect that you may have contracted the swine flu. Your doctor will recommend and prescribe treatment that may prevent further complications.
The Old and Young

- Although seasonal flu affects both the elderly and the very young severely, the H1N1 flu has been affected the young and healthy more than the elderly. If a pandemic breaks out in your area, and you have small children, it is a good idea to keep them home to cut down on the risk of exposure.
Weakened Immunity
- Those suffering from a weakened immune system, because of diseases like AIDS, HIV and cancer may be at higher risk of infection, and the damages it can cause to the body have the potential to be severe. In the event of an outbreak, it is best to avoid public exposure, and to wash your hands frequently to eliminate any exposure to the virus.
Other Complications
- Once you have contracted the swine flu, there are several other complications that might result. The following illnesses may be a problem:
- Pneumonia
- Bronchitis
- Dehydration
- Dizziness
- Lethargy
- There are no guarantees, but many of these complications can be avoided by seeking out medical attention and caring for yourself the best you can. Keep your body hydrated, rest and avoid exposure to people who may be carrying other illnesses.
Conclusion
If you do find that you have contracted the swine flu, seek medical attention, and try not to expose yourself to other people to keep the virus from spreading. Keep yourself as healthy as possible during the course of the infection, and if you are prescribed medication, follow the instructions to the letter to ensure the restoration of your health.
