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8969422 tn?1400901374

Is it normal to have these long term flu symptoms?

I am an 18 year old female. In November I had flu like symptoms for three months that turned into NORO virus in january. I then was hospitalized for dehydration and the severe body aches that were so painful. My doctor never really know what I had but after NORO it went away. Then a couple weeks ago the symptoms have been back. I sometimes have fever and diarrhea. But mostly I just have I have horrible body aches and nausea. I had blood work done about a month ago and everything was low but still in the normal range. My doctor has told me that it is just a virus and will go away. But in the last few days I have developed a sore throat and the body aches are horrible. I work 5 days a week at a rehab facility for people recovering from surgeries or strokes. As a CNA this makes my job so much harder because of my constant fatigue. I eat plenty and get enough sleep. Any advice on what this could be, or what I should do?
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Avatar universal
Sorry that some of that information was repeating what you said. Rereading your question, I realize you likely follow sterile procedures and hygiene requirements at work. You're probably a clean person, being a CNA.

But again, if you've been sick this long and your doctor doesn't seem concerned, I'd check with another doctor.
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Avatar universal
I'm just going to throw it out there that one virus cannot "turn into" another. If you were ill and then contracted norovirus in addition to whatever was ailing you before, that was an additional illness, likely facilitated by your weakened immune system, not a replacement.
All I can suggest is to wash your hands thoroughly and often, and drink plenty of fluids (like water and juice, and also some green or herbal teas may help alleviate the body aches, and also boost your immune system) so you do not get hospitalized again. You said you work in a rehab clinic for surgery and stroke patients. I am assuming this clinic is located within a hospital or other care center. You could come in contact with any number of viruses or diseases in such a location, so proper hygiene is imperative for preventing further contractions. Additionally, eating well and getting plenty of sleep will help boost your immune system so you are not so prone to contracting this persistent bug.

Now, I am amazed you had flu-like symptoms for three months, and also that your doctor seemed baffled. I would think s/he would test you further to figure out what was wrong, and especially whether it was contagious since you work with recovering patients who could easily contract any illness you have. I would consult your doctor again, and don't take "I don't know" for an answer. You've been sick for almost four of the last six months it sounds like. That is a serious problem, and it sounds like your doctor does not realize this. Make an appointment, and be sure to explain the history of your ailments, and all your symptoms to him/her. There are other conditions which can cause flu-like symptoms, including diabetes and chronic constipation. Ask your doctor. Don't be turned away. You might even have an immune disorder if you're contracting illness upon illness for months at a time. Maybe s/he missed it because they were not looking for it in your blood work.
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