Health Tip: When to Seek Medical Care if You Have the Flu

(HealthDay News) -- This year's flu season is shaping up to be the worst in nearly a decade, experts say.

The flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself. If you do develop symptoms including high fever, severe body aches, headache, extreme fatigue, sore throat, cough, runny nose, vomiting or diarrhea, you probably have the flu, the American Red Cross says.

Most cases don't require a visit to the emergency room, but the Red Cross says these symptoms require immediate medical care:

  • Fast breathing, trouble breathing or bluish skin color.
  • Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen.
  • Confusion.
  • Sudden dizziness.
  • Inability to drink or eat, or severe or persistent vomiting.
  • Flu-like symptoms that improve but then return.
  • Fever with a rash (children).
  • No tears when crying or significantly fewer wet diapers than usual (children).

    • Date Published: 2/28/2024 4:38:34 AM

    Related Articles

    Search Allergy Articles

    Tick-Borne Meat Allergy: Many Carry Alpha-Gal Antibodies Without Symptoms

    Adrenaline Nasal Sprays Work As Well As EpiPen For Allergic Shock

    Five New Year's Resolutions to Help You Breathe Easier

    Pediatric Allergy Specialist: Feed Babies Allergenic Foods Earlier, Not Later

    Severe Asthma Often Comes With Other Serious Health Problems

    Water-Damaged Homes, Heavy Air Pollution Increase Asthma Risk In Kids

    NYC Mold Removal Program Cut Asthma ER Cases By A Quarter, Study Says

    Racial Gap Exists For Asthma Inhaler Use

    Smoking, Vaping Weed Increases Risk Of Asthma Attacks Among Young Adults, Study Finds

    Asthma More Common Among Kids Whose Moms Have Eating Disorders

    Sepsis, Lung Infection Patients See No Benefit From Remote Monitoring

    Why Vaccines Are Especially Important for Children With Asthma

    RFK Jr. Says Fewer Flu Vaccines for Kids May Be a 'Better Thing'

    They Spent Hours In A Room Full Of Flu Patients And Walked Out Healthy — Here's How

    Scientists' Push For a Universal Vaccine Takes a Key Step Forward