Flu

When Should I Visit a Medical Clinic for the Flu?

If you contract the flu, you will probably experience symptoms like sore throat, a high fever, cough and pains and aches. You might not see any reason to see a doctor and instead, may decide to treat yourself with more fluids and rest. However, in some cases, seeing a doctor will help ensure faster recovery and prevent significant complications.

Common flu symptoms

Certain symptoms of flu can overlap with the common cold, but they tend to occur much faster and are more severe. The common signs of the flu include:

  • Sore throat
  • Fatigue
  • Chills
  • Muscle aches
  • Fever over 100°F (38°C)
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Dry or wet cough

Patients experiencing the following symptoms need to visit the emergency room immediately:

  • Severe or persistent vomiting
  • Chest pain
  • Confusion
  • Sudden dizziness
  • Severe neck stiffness
  • Loss of consciousness

When to visit the medical clinic

Some people are at a high risk of suffering dangerous complications related to the flu, like pneumonia or bronchitis. Such patients need to visit the medical clinic as soon as they notice the first signs of flu. Individuals considered high risk include:

  • Those age 65 or older
  • Those with a compromised immune system
  • People with a chronic medical condition (such as heart disease, asthma or diabetes)
  • Pregnant women or up to two weeks postpartum
  • Nursing home residents

Those who fit into any of the above categories may get an antiviral medication from the physician. The medications are more effective when they are used within the first 48 hours after symptoms begin—the earlier the visit to the medical clinic, the better.

For those who are not high-risk individuals and are not experiencing any of the severe symptoms, a trip to the medical clinic might not be necessary, as adequate rest and fluids should be enough. However, there are other times when one might need to visit the doctor. These include:

  • The fever improves, then suddenly aggravates
  • Symptoms do not improve after two weeks
  • One has a persistent cough that starts to produce thick mucus
  • Pain is localized in one area (like the chest, ear or sinuses)

Most people experience a full recovery from the flu in about a week. However, if one notices improvements and then the condition quickly deteriorates and fever spikes, it might be a case of flu complication. The major complications of the flu are infections of the lungs (pneumonia) or sinuses.

In summary

If you are down with the flu and are at high risk of developing flu complications or you are worried about the condition, you should contact the medical clinic immediately to book an appointment. Getting a flu vaccine can significantly reduce the risk of getting the flu. In some cases, the doctor may recommend prescription antiviral drugs to treat the condition.

When you are going to the doctor’s office, ensure that you wear a face mask if you can. Try to wash your hands and cover your face when coughing or sneezing to prevent the spread of the virus.

Request an appointment here: http://mosaicfamilycares.com or call Mosaic Family Care Medical Group at (323) 639-4239 for an appointment in our Los Angeles office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

Recent Posts

4 Benefits Of Regular Visits To A Medical Clinic

A medical clinic is where patients can go for their outpatient healthcare needs. These facilities provide various services, from primary and urgent care to specific healthcare needs. Patients who regularly visit a medical clinic are more likely to get regular preventive care treatments and screenings, prompt care for urgent health matters, and help manage chronic…

How Do You Know If You Should Get A Health Check Up?

Wondering when you need to get a health check up? Read on to learn more. Many people avoid seeking medical attention for minor health issues. If the headache disappears in a few hours or your fever subsides automatically after a short while, then there is perhaps no need to visit the doctor’s office for a…

The Importance And Benefits Of Immunizations

Immunizations, also known as vaccines, are injections that can prevent serious illness and improve individual health. Immunizations and vaccinations have helped prevent diseases that once spread rapidly through communities and killed infants and young children. Children who have had vaccinations against these contagious illnesses show improved health and wellness over time. Their enhanced immunity also…

High Cholesterol: The First Steps In Lowering Your Cholesterol

High cholesterol can lead to serious health consequences such as heart attack and stroke. Therefore, one of the most important things you can do for your health is to get your cholesterol under control. Luckily, there are steps you can take right now not only to begin lowering your cholesterol but also to improve your…

Elizabeth Mclaren

Share
Published by
Elizabeth Mclaren

Recent Posts

4 Benefits of Regular Visits to a Medical Clinic

A medical clinic is where patients can go for their outpatient healthcare needs.

3 weeks ago

How Do You Know if You Should Get a Health Check Up?

Wondering when you need to get a health check up? Read on to learn more.…

2 months ago

The Importance and Benefits of Immunizations

Immunizations, also known as vaccines, are injections that can prevent serious illness and improve individual…

3 months ago

High Cholesterol: The First Steps in Lowering Your Cholesterol

High cholesterol can lead to serious health consequences such as heart attack and stroke.

3 months ago

4 Reasons Why Vaccinations Are Important

A vaccination is an effective and simple protective technique against harmful ailments before you contract…

4 months ago

Tips From Your Primary Care Doctor on Heart Health

Here are a few basic things that you can do to make sure your heart…

5 months ago