What is influenza A, and what are the symptoms of influenza A?

Jan 06, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ren Yi
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, influenza A, whose full name is "influenza A virus," is an acute respiratory infectious disease caused by the influenza A virus. The influenza A virus is an enveloped RNA virus. Its viral particles are spherical, and based on different subtype combinations of the influenza A virus, influenza A can be further classified.

Under normal circumstances, influenza A, fully known as Type A influenza, is an acute respiratory infectious disease caused by the influenza A virus. Its main symptoms include high fever, cough, headache, generalized body aches, and redness and swelling around the urethral opening. If discomfort occurs, timely medical attention is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. High Fever

During Type A influenza infection, body temperature often rises sharply within a short time, reaching 39°C or even higher. Fever generally lasts for 3-5 days, and in some patients, body temperature may fluctuate repeatedly and take longer to return to normal.

2. Cough

Patients with Type A influenza may experience coughing due to increased active components in the bronchi. The cough may be dry or accompanied by phlegm and may worsen as the illness progresses.

3. Headache

In typical cases of Type A influenza, patients may feel pain in the head. The pain can vary in type, such as a feeling of distension, throbbing, or stabbing pain. Sometimes it may be accompanied by dizziness or vertigo, which can interfere with normal thinking and activities.

4. Generalized Body Aches

After infection with Type A influenza, generalized muscle pain may occur, especially in the limbs, waist, and back. The pain may intensify with movement. It is recommended to rest adequately to help alleviate these aching symptoms.

5. Redness and Swelling Around the Urethral Opening

Usually after infection with Type A influenza, due to the inflammatory response, redness and swelling may appear around the urethral opening. This is a reaction of the immune system to the infection, attempting to eliminate the pathogen.

If Type A influenza occurs, treatment may include medications such as oseltamivir phosphate capsules, antiviral oral liquid, and Shuanghuanglian oral liquid, under the guidance of a physician. In daily life, patients are advised to rest sufficiently and avoid excessive physical activity to promote recovery.