If you’re experiencing illness symptoms, it is possible that you could be suffering from the flu. Without a proper medical evaluation, it can be difficult to determine whether your symptoms are caused by the flu. If you think that you may have the flu, it is important to seek medical care for a medical diagnosis. The flu can cause a variety of different symptoms and is highly contagious. Learn about the causes and symptoms of the flu, including whether the flu can cause you to have a sore throat. Visit AFC Urgent Care Linden for same-day illness treatment without an appointment in Linden, NJ.

Causes & Symptoms of the Flu

Influenza, often referred to as the flu, is a common respiratory infection that circulates between October and May. The flu affects the upper respiratory system including the lungs, airway, nose, and sinuses. As a result, the flu can cause a variety of different symptoms, making it difficult to diagnose. The flu can cause symptoms for up to a week. Although the symptoms you experience from the flu many vary, a common symptom of the flu is a sore throat. Other common symptoms of the flu include:

• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Headache
• Body aches
• Chills
• Congestion
• Runny nose
• Cough
• Sneezing

The flu is highly contagious. The Influenza virus can be transmitted through direct contact with a person who has the virus. However, the flu virus can also live on surfaces like door knobs, faucets for over a day. This means that you can pick up the virus from touching the same surface as an infected individual. Viruses can also be transmitted through the air through airborne droplets released by an infected individual when they talk, cough or sneeze.  

When To Seek Medical Care For Flu Symptoms

In most cases, the flu causes moderate symptoms which resolve within a week. In some cases, flu symptoms may only last a day or two. For at-risk individuals such as young children, the elderly and those with underlying conditions, the flu can cause severe illness and even hospitalization. This is why it is vital to identify flu symptoms early, so that you can isolate from others who may be at-risk for severe illness.

The flu, like all viruses, do not respond to most medical treatment options such as antibiotics. Instead, the virus will be fought off by your immune system over time. If you experience severe symptoms, you should always seek medical care for a proper diagnosis. In the case of severe illness caused by the flu, medical professionals can offer supportive care such as IV fluids to treat dehydration. Other flu treatment options include at home care tips and over-the-counter medication suggestions based on your specific symptoms.

Flu Prevention Tips

Due to the limited treatment options, the best way to protect yourself from the flu this flu season is to take preventive measures to avoid contracting the flu. This may include increased awareness surrounding hygiene practices including handwashing and sanitizing surfaces to kill viruses before they can infect you. Carrying hand-sanitizer and limiting your contact with individuals who are demonstrating illness symptoms are also measures which can lessen your risk of exposure to the virus.

Getting your annual flu shot is a safe and affective way to protect yourself and your family during flu season. The flu shot is available for children over the age of 1 and is often covered by your medical insurance plan or offered at a low cost. Although the flu shot may cause temporary and mild flu like symptoms for 24 hours after the flu shot, it can help reduce your risk of developing the flu during flu season.

Visit AFC Urgent Care Linden for Same-Day Flu Diagnosis & Treatment In Linden, NJ

When you’re experiencing illness symptoms and suspect you may have the flu, AFC Urgent Care Linden is here to help. Our facility is open 7 days a week with extended business hours. We never require you to have an appointment to receive medical care. Simply walk into our clinic or schedule an appointment in advance online.

At AFC Urgent Care Linden, we offer rapid illness diagnosis and treatment without the long wait times and high costs associated with the emergency room. Our medical providers are board-certified and trained to diagnose and treat a variety of common illnesses, including the flu. Our facility is state-of-the-art and equipped with a laboratory on-site, allowing us to provide you with a fast and accurate diagnosis for your illness at the time of your visit. For additional information regarding our clinic, contact us directly by calling 908-275-5922.