Tips for a Speedy Flu Recovery
If you or a family member contracts the flu, you may not see any reason to visit your primary care provider. In some cases, seeing your medical doctor can help with a speedy recovery and prevent significant complications. There is no price to peace of mind. By seeking medical treatment when you don’t feel well, knowing that your body aches are only temporary can alleviate worry.
Symptoms of a Flu
Certain symptoms of the flu overlap with a common cold, but they tend to be more intense. The symptoms of the flu include a sore throat, fatigue, chills, muscle aches, fever over 100˚, nasal congestion, and a dry or wet cough. More severe symptoms include severe or persistent vomiting, chest pain, confusion, dizziness, severe neck stiffness, and a loss of consciousness. If you are experiencing any of the more severe symptoms, you need to visit the emergency room as soon as possible.
Patients that are High Risk for Flu Complications
There are some people at a higher risk of suffering dangerous complications or death from the flu. If you are 65 years or older, have a compromised immune system, have a chronic medical condition, are pregnant, or in a nursing home, you should seek advice from a doctor as soon as possible when diagnosed with the flu. Medications are more effective when they are used within two days after symptoms begin. As a rule of thumb when dealing with the flu, the sooner you seek medical attention, the better.
For those who are not considered high-risk individuals and are experiencing common symptoms, it may not be necessary to go to the hospital. Be sure to rest and drink plenty of fluids. With that being said there are some circumstances where you should go to the hospital. If your fever improves but then suddenly gets worse, your symptoms don’t improve after two weeks, your cough produces mucus, or your pain is centralized in one area (such as your chest), you should seek medical attention. Another valid reason to go to the hospital is peace of mind. If you are worried that your body will not react well to the flu or have you do not feel like you are improving, going to the hospital would be a good idea. Along with making sure you recover, one of the doctor’s main objectives is to make their patients have peace of mind. One way to significantly decrease the chances that you catch the flu is to get the flu vaccine.
At Jupiter Internal Medicine Associates, our medical providers are here to help. We encourage you to schedule a same day sick appointment today. Schedule your comprehensive medical visit to learn more about flu prevention and how to get a flu shot.