Influenza in Seniors
 There are a variety of people who are at a higher risk of developing complications related to the flu, a common viral infection that affects millions of people world wide each year. Influenza in seniors is one of those cases in which a common illness has the potential to develop into a much more serious problem if not properly monitored.
Normally, the flu will go away on its own without much consequence. While the term "flu" is used to describe symptoms associated with a variety of illnesses, the true flu will usually not result in vomiting or diarrhea. The most serious symptoms associated with the flu is fever and loss of appetite, which can leave people dehydrated and weak and promote the spread of the infection to other parts of the body. Influenza in seniors has the possibility of developing into other conditions, most commonly pneumonia, which can lead to serious complications for elderly patients and claims many lives each year.
However, influenza in seniors does not have to lead to a hospital stay. There are a few steps seniors can take to avoid the flu all together during its peak season. These include:
- Getting vaccinated
- Washing hands constantly, especially in public places
- Covering coughs
- Avoiding people who you believe to be ill
If you do end up coming down with the flu, keeping a close eye on your condition and reacting quickly to worsening conditions can make for a quick and complication-free recovery. Also, your primary care provider will be able to provide you with more influenza information to help you prepare for flu season in order to avoid any serious complications.
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