Older adults and people with chronic diseases are at the greatest risk of problems associated with seasonal flu. Because older adults have reduced cough and gag reflexes, they often have increased respiratory problems associated with flu. In addition, older adults have weakened immune systems, which makes it harder for their bodies to fight flu complications such as pneumonia.

Of all age groups, individuals older than age 84 have the highest risk of dying from seasonal flu complications; those older than age 74 face the second highest risk of flu complications. Children age 4 and younger have the third highest risk of problems with seasonal flu.

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What about swine flu in the elderly? It's still too early to say if older adults are at greater risk from swine flu than other adults. However, people who are older who have weakened immune systems and suffer from chronic health conditions typically have a higher risk of flu complications.

How can older adults tell if they have the flu?

The symptoms of flu in older adults -- whether it's caused by the typical seasonal flu or the swine flu virus -- are pretty much the same as in other age groups. They may include:

fever (usual)
headache (common)
tiredness and fatigue (can last 2 or 3 weeks)
extreme exhaustion (usual at the start of flu symptoms)
general aches and pain (often severe)
chest discomfort, cough (common and can become severe)
sore throat (sometimes)
runny or stuffy nose (sometimes)

For in-depth information, see WebMD's Flu Symptoms: What You Might Feel.

Do older adults get gastrointestinal problems with the flu?

Although more common in children, older adults sometimes suffer from stomach symptoms, like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, with the seasonal flu. These symptoms seem to be more common with swine flu.

What flu complications should older adults watch for?

Complications of seasonal or swine flu in seniors may include:

pneumonia
dehydration
worsening of chronic medical conditions, including lung conditions such as asthma and emphysema and heart disease

It's important to see your doctor immediately if you have any of these flu complications. The sooner you start medical treatment, the faster it can work to treat the more serious symptoms.

For in-depth information, see WebMD's Flu Complications.

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