People are likely to experience and catch the flu at least once in their life. For most, symptoms aren’t serious, and recovery time can take about a week. For others, symptoms can be more severe, and it can become life-threatening. Recognize common symptoms of the flu to help get the treatment you need when you need it.

AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth provides flu diagnosis and treatment to all patients. Our board-certified providers can help make recommendations for treatment to speed up your recovery. Visit our walk-in urgent care center today to receive care.

Flu Symptoms

As mentioned previously, symptoms of the flu can range from mild to severe. Common flu symptoms include:

• Fever, with or without chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Congestion
• Headache
• Fatigue

The most noticeable sign of the flu is that these symptoms come on suddenly. Patients have experienced fatigue and headache as one of the earliest signs. The additional symptoms will show up within two days after infection.

Treating the Flu

In most cases, the flu can be treated at home with OTC medications and rest. You should avoid contact with others and going other places other than to receive medical care when you are sick. If your symptoms begin to worsen or you are considered someone who is high-risk, consult a provider when you begin to feel unwell.

Young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with medical conditions are considered high-risk. These groups should receive their flu shot by the end of October each year to prevent any serious symptoms or potential hospitalization.

Pain medications such as Advil or Tylenol can help with pain and reduce fever. Other medications such as DayQuil or NyQuil can help with additional symptoms. Speak with one of our providers if you’re unsure what medications you should take.

Severe Signs & Potential Complications

Warning signs of the flu can be different for each patient, depending on their age and current health status. Children and adults will have different warning signs. In children, warning signs include:

• Trouble breathing
• Blue lips or face
• Chest pain
• Muscle pain (child refuses to walk)
• Dehydration
• Not alert when awake
• Fever above 104 degrees, or fever at all in children under 12 weeks

In adults, the warning signs are a little different. These include:

• Difficulty breathing
• Chest pain
• Dizziness or confusion
• Seizures
• Severe weakness or dizziness
• Fever or cough that start to get better, but return worse than before

These symptoms are not all-inclusive. This means there are additional warning signs that should be considered. If you begin to notice any symptom that is concerning, visit your doctor.