How the H1N1 Flu is Diagnosed

It is often hard to distinguish the H1N1 flu from other illnesses, such as regular influenza or the common cold. Oftentimes physicians cannot diagnose it just by observing its symptoms. But they can confirm it by comparing its symptoms and performing a nasopharyngeal swab test.

H1N1 Flu Diagnosis: Symptoms

The physician first asks about a person's symptoms prior to administering the nasopharyngeal swab test. What are the symptoms? How long has the person had it? How severe are the symptoms? All of these questions help the physician during diagnosis.

The following symptoms, typical of an H1N1 virus infection, help the physician diagnose the H1N1 flu:

- A runny or stuffy nose. Mucus may be present.

- Body aches or chills. The patient may feel cold or shaky even when wearing thick clothing.

- Fatigue. The patient may feel exhausted or too tired to complete even simple activities.

- A sore throat. It may feel itchy, scratchy. Talking is difficult.

- Fever or headache. It is usually persistent and still returns after taking medication to treat it.

- Persistent cough. The throat may tickle, causing the person to cough. It is sometimes accompanied by mucus.

- Diarrhea. It can occur at random, causing significant stomach cramping or pain.

- Vomiting. It sometimes occur with diarrhea.

These symptoms usually need to occur for two days or more when the physician diagnoses the H1N1 flu. Although all of these symptoms do not need to be present, diarrhea and vomiting often occur with the H1N1 flu. Not experiencing vomiting or diarrhea usually indicates it is a different type of influenza.

Diagnosing the H1N1 Flu: Testing

If the symptoms indicate the presence of the H1N1 flu, the physician usually performs a nasopharyngeal swab test to determine if the H1N1 virus is present. If it is present, the flu is diagnosed.

The Nasopharyngeal Swab Test: According to HealthandSurvival.com, the test is performed by inserting a thin cotton swab two inches into the nostril, aimed towards the throat. The swab is then sent to a laboratory where specialists determine which virus, if any, is present in the sample. If the specialists confirm the H1N1 virus strain is in the sample, the physician can officially diagnose the H1N1 flu.

The physician cannot diagnose the flu immediately, however, because the testing takes considerable time. It may take days before the physician can properly diagnose it.

If the physician diagnoses the H1N1 flu, follow his instructions for recovery. Treatment usually includes antiviral drugs and plenty of rest.

Sources:
"Swine Flu (H1N1) Symptoms - Protect Yourself, Phase 6 Alert In Effect!", HealthandSurvival.com