When to worry about loss of appetite with influenza

Fever, headache, muscle aches, cough, sore throat and exhaustion can make eating unpleasant. Nausea or a blocked nose may further reduce interest in food. Loss of appetite is more concerning when it comes with dehydration, breathing difficulty, severe weakness or a change from the expected pattern of recovery.

The symptom does not confirm influenza by itself. Other infections and medical problems can also reduce appetite. Consider your ability to drink, urinate and stay alert alongside the appetite change.

Take small, frequent sips of water, broth or an oral rehydration drink. Eat little and often if you can, choosing soft foods that are easy to swallow. Rest and avoid strenuous activity. Take only medicines that are suitable for you, following the label or advice from a clinician.

Contact a clinician early if you are pregnant, older, immunocompromised, or have a long-term heart, lung or metabolic condition. Antiviral treatment may be time-sensitive for some people, so mention when the influenza symptoms began.

Seek urgent help for trouble breathing, chest pain, blue or grey lips, new confusion, inability to wake, fainting, or severe weakness. Prompt assessment is also needed if you cannot keep fluids down, pass very little urine, or improve and then become clearly worse.

Arrange medical advice for persistent vomiting, worsening fever or a cough that becomes more painful or breathless. Children, frail adults and people with chronic illness may deteriorate sooner and should be monitored closely.

How can I tell whether I am dehydrated? Do I need testing or antiviral treatment? Which fever or cough medicines are safe with my regular medicines, and when should I be examined again?