Viral Infections: Why They Hit Harder Than You Think
A simple fever, runny nose, or sore throat? Viral infections can seem minor until they’re not. While most pass on their own, some can cause complications if not managed properly.
Common Viral Illnesses:
1. Influenza (flu)
2. Common cold
3. COVID-19
4. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
5. Norovirus (stomach flu)
6. Chickenpox or shingles
How to Tell It’s a Virus:
Viruses often start with:
- Fever
- Body aches
- Sore throat
- Fatigue
- Cough and runny nose
- Gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea or vomiting (in some cases)
The bad news: Antibiotics don’t work against viruses. The good news: You can manage symptoms at home but monitor your health closely.
Track Your Symptoms with Smart Tools:
1. A digital thermometer helps track fever trends if it’s over 101°F (38.3°C) for more than 3 days, consult a doctor.
2. A pulse oximeter can check your oxygen levels if you have a bad cough or difficulty breathing.
Stay hydrated, get enough rest, and isolate if you think the infection is contagious. Don’t ignore prolonged fatigue, high fever, or breathing issues — sometimes viral infections can turn into something more serious like pneumonia or bronchitis.