Flu
Flu Treatment
The flu is a viral respiratory illness that you’ve probably had at least once in your life. Located in Burbank, California, Care Fast Urgent Care provides testing and professional care for the flu. Albert Kashanian, MD, Nora Davidian, PA, and the team can help reduce your symptoms as well as the risk for complications. Simply walk in for a visit today.
Flu Q & A
What is the flu?
The flu is a common contagious illness that tends to flare up in the winter months. The flu comes from various strains of the influenza virus, and each year several particular strains are most active. Experts predict which strains will be active and use them to create the yearly flu vaccine, which you can get to significantly lower your chances of a severe infection.
Most cases of the flu resolve on their own, even if you don’t get professional care. Still, you should seek treatment if you’re at high risk of developing potential complications from an infection, which can include death. You’re especially at risk of getting complications if you’re under age 5, over 65, obese, pregnant, or have a weak immune system.
The flu spreads through water droplets coming from your mouth or nose. To avoid transmission, which can happen even before you get symptoms, you should cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, wash your hands frequently, and clean the surfaces you and others regularly touch.
What are common symptoms of the flu?
Flu symptoms are strikingly similar to symptoms of the common cold but can be more severe and usually set in more abruptly.
If you come down with the flu, you might experience:
- Fever
- Body aches
- Chills
- Sweats
- Sore throat
- Congestion
- Dry cough
- Fatigue or weakness
- Eye pain
- Headache
Some individuals, especially children, experience nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea from the influenza virus. However, the difference between the flu and the stomach flu is an important distinction. These illnesses are not caused by the same virus.
How is the flu treated?
Your provider at Care Fast Urgent Care can usually diagnose you with the flu after observing and asking about your symptoms. They might use a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test to confirm the diagnosis.
Typically, the best treatment for the flu is drinking plenty of fluids and getting lots of rest. If you have a severe case or are at risk of complications for any reason, your provider at Care Fast Urgent Care may prescribe antiviral medication. They can shorten the duration of your symptoms and reduce your risk for complications.
If you have aches, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers to ease those particular symptoms. You should also stay home, or keep your child with the flu home, until the fever has been gone for at least 24 hours.
If you have flu symptoms and would like to get a professional evaluation, just walk in to Care Fast Urgent Care.
