Influenza is a relatively common disease and usually lasts between 7 and 10 days. However, when not treated correctly, the complications of the flu can make it more serious, being able to lead to death, especially in more susceptible population groups, such as the elderly and people with heart or lung diseases.
Main complications of influenza
When the flu is not treated correctly or when the person is within the group most susceptible to the flu, there can be complications, such as:
- Severe inflammation of the airways with bloody sputum sputum; Viral pneumonia, which causes death in less than 48 hours and happens when the Influenzae virus reaches the lungs, with progression to respiratory failure; Bacterial pneumonia, which compromises the capacity of the lungs; Encephalitis, which is inflammation of the brain that can cause drowsiness, mental confusion and coma; Myocarditis, which is inflammation of the heart muscle, which can produce heart failure; Myositis, which is the inflammation of the muscles. Bronchitis, which corresponds to inflammation of the bronchi in which there is cough 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 potentially lethal complication that occurs most often in children during epidemics of the influenza B virus, particularly when they are medicated with aspirin or any medication that contains it. Learn more about Reye's syndrome.
Who is most susceptible?
Those most likely to have complications from the flu are people with chronic diseases, such as diabetes, respiratory diseases, liver, heart or kidneys, in addition to those who have diseases that can compromise the immune system, such as AIDS, for example. In addition, those who are in the treatment of cancer and people over 65 are more likely to develop complications, as the immune system is also compromised.
To avoid complications, it is important to carry out the treatment according to the doctor's guidance. Find out how flu treatment is done.
