Influenza, commonly known as flu, is a viral infection of the nose, throat, and lungs. Most of the time, people get better from the flu without going to the doctor, but sometimes, when the viral attack becomes severe, it can be deadly also. Children under age 2 and older people above 65 are at higher risk of influenza complications. In these circumstances, it becomes necessary to go to the doctor for tests and treatment.
The most common season in which flu prevails is winter, while it also spreads from person to person through sneezing, coughing, and touching contaminated surfaces. if you have these symptoms must take IV Fluid Therapy
Symptoms of Influenza
The flu may initially appear to be a typical cold with a runny nose, sneezing, and sore throat. Having flu and cold typically makes you feel much worse. Here are the common flu symptoms:
- Runny or congested nose
- Fever
- Sore muscles
- Sweats and chills
- Headache
- Continual dry cough
- Breathing difficulty
- Fatigue and sluggishness
- Eye discomfort
Influenza Test Types
Influenza can be deadly if you do not take medication and treatment on time. Various influenza tests are conducted for correct treatments. Here are the three main tests that are primarily performed as influenza tests.
Several types of tests can be used to diagnose influenza, including:
Rapid influenza diagnostic tests (RIDTs) – These tests can provide results within 15-20 minutes and are often used in doctors’ offices or clinics. RIDTs detect the presence of viral proteins in respiratory specimens, but they may not be able to distinguish between influenza and other respiratory viruses.
Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) tests – These tests are highly accurate and can identify the specific type of influenza virus. RT-PCR tests are typically performed in a laboratory and can provide results within a few hours.
Viral culture – This test involves growing the influenza virus in a laboratory to identify its specific type. Viral culture is a highly accurate test, but it can take several days to obtain results.
Antigen detection tests – These tests detect the presence of specific proteins on the surface of the influenza virus. Antigen detection tests are less accurate than RT-PCR tests but can provide results within a few hours.
It’s important to note that not all influenza tests are the same, and the type of test used can affect the accuracy of the diagnosis. Your doctor can help you determine the best test for your situation.
Rapid Influenza Diagnostic Tests (RIDTs)
Rapid influenza diagnostic tests are also called flu antigen tests. These tests are one of the most common types of flu tests. Influenza can be of two types, A and B; these tests diagnose both types of influenzas. The standard procedure for RIDTs is to take a sample from your nostril using a swab. In this test, specific viral parts (antigens) are detected.
The test results will be qualitative, either positive or negative. This test provides results quickly, usually within 30 minutes.
Rapid Molecular Assays
In rapid molecular assays, the genetic material of the flu virus is detected. These kinds of tests are more accurate than rapid influenza diagnostic tests. Your rapid molecular assay will give you results within 15-30 minutes. Nasopharyngeal (NP) swabs are utilized in these tests. The sample is subsequently delivered to a lab for evaluation. Inpatients with flu-like symptoms are also subjected to this test by medical professionals.
Specialized Laboratory Tests for Flu
Besides the tests mentioned above, specific laboratory tests are also conducted for influenza. One of the most common and famous lab tests is reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Among all influenza tests, this one takes longer to give results. After collecting the sample from the nasal swab, the healthcare provider sends it to the lab to perform RT-PCR and other similar lab tests.
Extensive Influenza Testing Facilities at ER of Watauga
Influenza attacks people from nowhere and worsens if the patient has low immunity. Hence, patients sometimes must be in emergency rooms due to severe flu. The emergency room of Watauga has the latest lab testing equipment and facilities for the influenza virus. Moreover, you will get the test results as quickly as possible so your treatment can start on time. If you are experiencing influenza symptoms, you should visit your nearby emergency room to get a better diagnosis and treatment.