Feeling sick is an all too common occurrence in the winter months. When temperatures drop, cold weather can cause our immune system to weaken and we tend to spend more time indoors close to others. These factors facilitate the rapid spread of disease, including viral infections like the flu. The flu can cause many different symptoms, however, it typically impacts the upper respiratory system including your lungs and throat. It is unlikely for the flu to lead to symptoms like vomiting. Keep reading to learn more about common flu symptoms and what to do if you think you’ve been exposed to the flu.
If you’re feeling sick, AFC Urgent Care Grand Junction is here to help. Our walk-in clinic offers patients in Grand Junction, CO, rapid same-day care for flu-like symptoms that is affordable and convenient. We’re open 7 days a week, simply walk in when it’s convenient for you!
Common Flu Symptoms
The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. It is highly contagious from person to person through direct contact as well as touching contaminated surfaces and airborne droplets released by infected individuals. Symptoms typically appear quickly and can be severe. They affect the respiratory system which includes your nose, throat, and lungs. The flu does not cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea. Flu symptoms can last up to 10 days, however, with early intervention symptoms will resolve much quicker.
Symptoms typically include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Congestion
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue
Flu Diagnosis & Treatment
Flu symptoms can mimic severe cold symptoms, which often results in early flu symptoms being ignored. However, symptoms usually worsen with time and can be severe. If you think you have the flu, it is important to seek urgent medical care. Medications that treat the flu, such as Tamiflu, must be administered within 48 hours of symptoms appearing to be effective.
Like most viral infections, treatment for the flu typically involves symptom management while your body fights off the virus. It is important to monitor your symptoms closely for signs of them getting worse. In some cases, the flu can result in secondary infections such as pneumonia or sinus infections which require further treatment.
Tips for Flu Prevention
The flu can spread quickly from person to person. Spending time indoors in an office or school setting increases the risk of being exposed to the flu virus. Symptoms can sometimes take a day to show up, allowing an infected person to spread their germs to others. Getting your flu shot is the best way to prevent severe illness caused by the flu. Being diligent about hand washing, avoiding touching surfaces in public like elevator buttons or door handles, and not touching your face will all help reduce your risk of getting sick.
Walk Into AFC Grand Junction for Same-Day Illness Care in Grand Junction, CO
If you think you have the flu, having access to convenient medical care is crucial to ensure that you can treat it while your symptoms are still mild. At AFC Urgent Care Grand Junction, we offer rapid same-day care with short wait times 7 days a week. Our medical providers are board-certified and trained to diagnose early flu symptoms and treat them effectively. We accept most medical insurance plans and offer affordable care. Walk into the clinic today!
