Flu

What is the flu?

The flu is a viral infection that attacks your upper respiratory tract, including your nose, throat, and lungs. Most instances of the flu are mild and respond to at-home treatments like rest, over-the-counter medication, and drinking plenty of fluids. Still, the flu can trigger potentially serious symptoms, so it’s important to get vaccinated annually.

What are the symptoms of the flu?

Symptoms of the flu include:

• Fever
• Aching muscles
• Chills
• Headache
• Dry, persistent cough
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Eye pain
• Sore throat

You might also experience gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting, but these symptoms are more common in children and teenagers than adults.

When should I visit the doctor about the flu?

If you develop flu symptoms and you’re immunocompromised or over the age of 65, seek medical treatment right away. You should also seek flu treatment at Cali Quick Urgent Care if you experience severe symptoms like shortness of breath, ongoing dizziness, or muscle pain.

How is the flu diagnosed?

To diagnose the flu, the team at Cali Quick Urgent Care asks about your symptoms, including when they started and their severity. Next, the team conducts a comprehensive physical, checking your ears, eyes, nose, and throat, and listening to your heart and lungs with a stethoscope. 

If the team suspects you have the flu, they might order additional testing to determine the type of virus that is causing your symptoms. This information can help them determine the best course of treatment. 

How is the flu treated?

Often, the flu responds to conservative, at-home treatments like getting plenty of rest, drinking fluids, and taking over-the-counter medication. 

If your symptoms are severe or you have an underlying medical condition, the team might prescribe antiviral medication to speed up your recovery and reduce the risk of complications.

Is there any way to prevent the flu?

There’s no way to prevent the flu entirely, but you can significantly lower your risk by getting the flu shot each year. The flu shot won’t necessarily prevent you from getting sick, but it can reduce the risk of severe or potentially life-threatening complications.

If you think you have the flu, don’t wait to schedule an appointment at Cali Quick Urgent Care. Book with the online scheduler, or call the office today.