When to go to the doctor for flu symptoms
Every year, rates of influenza in the U.S. begin to rise in November, peak between January and February and start to decline in March. The preliminary data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on the 2023-2024 flu season reports up to 65 million infections, 30 million healthcare visits, 830,000 hospitalizations, and 72,000 deaths.
Now that we’re about to enter the 2024-2025 flu season, rates of influenza are beginning to climb again. It’s essential to be aware of flu-like symptoms, red flags to look for and the difference between a virus and bacteria. Here are some ways you can be more prepared for flu season this year.
1. You are under 2 years old or over 65
Young children and older adults are at a higher risk of flu complications than other age groups. Children under age 2 do not have a fully mature immune system, which predisposes them to many illnesses. They are also more prone to dehydration due to their smaller body size. Children under 6 months are at exceptionally high risk because they are too young to receive a flu shot.
Older adults are at a higher risk of flu complications because they often have a weakened immune system due to their age. The flu can also worsen the underlying medical conditions many seniors have, including diabetes and heart and lung disease. Seniors are also at risk for dehydration, as they don’t feel thirst in the same way as younger people do.
2. You have shortness of breath
A persistent dry cough is common with the flu, but shortness of breath signals a serious issue needing prompt medical care. Difficulty breathing with the flu can point to viral or bacterial pneumonia, respiratory distress, or other cardiac and respiratory complications.
If you have shortness of breath, a detailed evaluation by a healthcare provider is warranted. This exam includes a measurement of your oxygen saturation and other vital signs, a lung exam, and, in some cases, a chest X-ray. If you experience severe symptoms of breathing difficulty, like lips turning blue, chest pain, lethargy, or confusion, it is essential to seek emergency medical attention.
It's also good to be mindful that flu-like symptoms and COVID-19 symptoms, such as low-grade fever, nasal congestion, and sore throat, can be the same thing.
3. You have persistent vomiting or diarrhea
Vomiting and diarrhea are common symptoms of influenza. While they’re more common in children than adults, people of any age can experience vomiting and diarrhea. If these symptoms persist, they can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Anyone with persistent gastrointestinal symptoms should seek medical attention to see if I.V. fluids, blood work, or prescription-strength medications are indicated.
4. Your symptoms last more than two weeks
A viral infection should run its entire course within 10-14 days, with a mild cough sometimes lasting slightly longer. Suppose your symptoms persist beyond 14 days or seem to be getting worse. In that case, it’s essential to seek medical attention to see if there’s another underlying cause that requires further evaluation or treatment.
5. You have underlying health conditions
For patients with underlying health conditions, influenza can not only cause flu-like symptoms; it can also worsen pre-existing conditions, including asthma, diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, and chronic lung disease. These conditions also put you at greater risk for more severe symptoms if you do get the flu.
Pregnant patients should get a flu shot during flu season, as flu complications can affect both mom and baby. The mother’s immunity passes through the placenta, providing antibodies to newborns who cannot yet receive the vaccine but may be born during flu season.
6. Your symptoms suddenly worsen
One of the risks of viral infections is that they can lead to secondary bacterial infections. These infections happen for two primary reasons. First, the body’s immune system is weakened from fighting the virus, so it’s more susceptible to other pathogens. And second, the mucus membranes in the upper and lower respiratory tracts are inflamed, making them easier for bacteria to penetrate.
Common secondary infections in influenza patients include sinusitis, pneumonia, sepsis, and meningitis. If you seem to be recovering from the flu but suddenly develop a fever or worsening symptoms, it’s wise to seek medical attention to see if antibiotics are warranted.
7. You have COVID-19 symptoms
COVID-19 and influenza are both respiratory viruses, so many flu and COVID symptoms overlap. These shared symptoms include a fever, cough, headache, nasal congestion, body aches, fatigue, and diarrhea.
However, the data we have so far indicates that the hospitalization rate from the seasonal flu is approximately 2-3x lower than COVID-19. The death rate of COVID-19 is also higher but has been decreasing since the start of the pandemic. So, it’s essential to seek medical attention if you have symptoms unique to COVID-19, including a loss of taste or smell, severe shortness of breath, or blue lips.
Symptomatic patients often benefit from rapid flu and rapid COVID-19 tests, which can determine a diagnosis, inform a patient’s treatment plan, and decrease their risk of spreading an infection to the people around them.
If you are wondering if you should go to the doctor for the flu, we are here to help. Our caring providers at our urgent care centers can help you get the correct diagnosis and treatment, whether you have the flu, COVID-19, or are just not feeling your best. To get started, find a center near you and walk in or save your spot online.
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Written by Sarah Thebarge, Physician Assistant
