Every year, the cases of flu and the severity seem to rise in numbers. The flu virus is an extremely contagious virus that can cause life-threatening symptoms. This is especially true when young children or the elderly experience the flu. It is important for you to be able to recognize the symptoms of flu and seek treatment right away, through the Doctor’s Office in Palm Beach Gardens. The sooner you are seen, the better able your doctor will be, in helping you to overcome the virus.
What are the Common Symptoms of the Flu Virus?
* Headache
* Body aches
* Chills
* Sore throat
* Fever of 101 or higher
* Nasal congestion
The symptoms of the flu virus can vary from person to person, depending on the level of health the person has. For those with compromised immune symptoms, the virus can cause secondary illnesses, like pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections, dehydration and devastating effects on chronic illness. If you experience any of these symptoms, especially during flu season (the fall months and January and February), you need to seek medical attention right away.
How Does the Doctor’s Office in Palm Beach Gardens Treat the Flu?
To find out if you are truly suffering from the flu virus, the doctor will first carry out a flu test. This is done by swabbing the inner tissue of your nasal cavities. The test only takes a few minutes to perform and is fairly accurate in diagnosing most forms of the flu. If the test is positive and you have had symptoms for less than twenty-four hours, the doctor may be able to give you a flu medication, to help reduce the severity of your symptoms and the length of time the virus lasts. Other treatments will involve keeping your fever down and treating the symptoms.
To prevent the flu, it is important you are given the flu vaccination each year. You should plan on getting this shot before fall, so you will be completely protected when flu outbreaks are at their worst. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Family Medical & Urgent Care.
