Flu season can last well into the spring season. Even if you got your flu shot, you still can contract the flu. The virus spreads easily when we spend time indoors in schools, office buildings, and stores. If you have flu-like symptoms, learn about when to seek medical care for your symptoms and how to promote a fast recovery. Visit AFC Urgent Care Burlington for same-day flu diagnosis and treatment available 7 days a week from 8am-8pm for patients in Burlington, MA.
Symptoms of the Flu
The flu is a viral infection that can cause severe illness, even for healthy adults. It is caused by the influenza virus, which is very contagious. It can be spread through direct contact with a sick person, through the air, and even can live on surfaces for over a day. Flu symptoms typically last 4-7 days. Getting your flu shot will reduce the risk of you developing severe illness from the flu, however, it does not mean that it is impossible for you to get the flu. Identifying the symptoms early can help you manage your symptoms and identify when to seek medical care.
Common flu symptoms include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Chills
- Body aches
- Fatigue
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Congestion
- Post-nasal drip
Can You Treat the Flu at Home?
If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, you should seek medical care for diagnostic testing. Flu symptoms often begin mild and share many symptoms with other common illnesses, including colds and strep throat. A medical professional will be able to evaluate your symptoms and test to determine if you have the flu, or are suffering from another illness. Seeking medical care early can help stop your symptoms from worsening. It also may be necessary for your employer or professors to grant you excused sick days to rest and protect others from contracting the flu.
Tips for a Fast Recovery From the Flu
Although the flu can cause severe illness, there are no medications that a doctor can prescribe to resolve the infection. Viral infections do not respond to antibiotics or other prescription treatments. If you have the flu, your healthcare provider will be able to suggest medications for symptom management, including dosage instructions. The best treatment for the flu is to rest and take the necessary steps to manage your symptoms and any discomfort while the infection resolves. The following tips may help manage common flu symptoms:
- Take warm showers to break up congestion
- Drink warm liquids to stay hydrated and soothe a sore throat
- Stay hydrated
- Get plenty of rest to replenish your body’s energy while it fights off the virus
- Use a humidifier to reduce airway irritation
Visit AFC Urgent Care Burlington for Same-Day Illness Diagnosis & Treatment
AFC Urgent Care Burlington is here to provide fast and reliable medical care for all of your illness symptoms. If you are experiencing symptoms similar to the flu symptoms mentioned above, visit AFC Urgent Care Burlington for same-day diagnostic testing in our walk-in clinic. We have a laboratory on-site, allowing us to perform rapid diagnostic testing at the time of your visit. We never require that you schedule an appointment, simply walk in when it’s convenient for you. Our clinic maintains short wait times, allowing you to get care from our board-certified medical staff promptly. For additional information about our clinic, contact us directly by calling (781) 270-4700.
