When it’s time to see a doctor for the flu
/
When it’s time to see a doctor for the flu
Every year the flu bug makes its rounds and this year is a particularly bad one. At least 30 children have died from this virus with schools across the nation warning parents not to send their child to school if sick. Even many adults are getting hit hard with this year’s flu. The estimated total number of individuals who have contracted the flu so far this year is approximately 74,562 – however these numbers do not include all people who have had the flu, as many do not see a doctor when sick. All of us are being told that if sick, stay home to slow down and prevent the spread of this dangerous virus.
Generally, the flu, even though unpleasant, is usually not life-threatening. It’s difficult to know exactly how many people die from the flu each. This is partly because deaths are often attributed to flu-related complications such as pneumonia, sepsis, or heart failure. If this is the case, then flu may not be listed as the cause of death.
But, during the week of December 27, 2017, the CDC estimated that 7 percent of all deaths in the U.S. were related to pneumonia or the flu.
Anyone of us is vulnerable to coming down with the flu. If you have not yet gotten a flu shot, it is still not too late to do so. Even though there are reports that this year’s shot is not very effective at preventing cases of H3N2, the predominant strain of flu circulating, it doesn’t mean it can’t help. While the vaccine is not 100 percent effective, for those who do get it and then get the flu, will generally have a less severe illness than those who did not get the vaccine.
There is usually no denying if you have the flu. Symptoms come on quickly and physically you will feel and look sick. Signs of the flu are usually fever, chills, muscles aches, a cough, runny nose, and fatigue. These symptoms are to be expected and will generally run their course. Staying in bed resting, drinking plenty of fluids and calling the doctor to see if they recommend the anti-viral medication, Tamiflu, are the best ways to get battle through the flu.
But if you do get the flu, how do you know when to see your doctor? By paying attention to your symptoms seeing if they change or are different, can be signals it’s time to see a medical professional:
· You are having trouble breathing or have chest pain
The flu should not make you short of breath or cause your chest to hurt. If you notice this, it could indicate a more serious problem such as heart disease, asthma, or pneumonia.
· Your fever is not getting better
If your fever is not responding to treatment or is getting worse, you may have another infection in the body needing attention. Get in to see a doctor as soon as possible.
· You keep having vomiting
Anyone experiencing vomiting can become dehydrated very quickly. This is especially so if you are unable to drink anything without vomiting. In order for your body to function properly, you need fluids. To avoid dehydration, you may need to go to your doctor’s office or the hospital to get fluids through an IV.
· Swallowing is very painful
Sore throats can hurt but severe pain can be a sign of an infection or injury that needs to be seen by a doctor.
· Your cough is not going away
A cough that is sticking around is likely due to postnasal drip – mucus that moves from your nose into your throat. This can be treated with antihistamines but it could also be related to asthma, or GERD. Only your doctor will be able to tell for sure and how to treat it.
If the cough continues to last for 2-3 weeks and or becomes more severe, it could be whooping cough. Seeing a doctor will be necessary to diagnosis this and to get it treated.