The flu typically causes fever, chills, muscle pain, coughing, fatigue, and loss of appetite. Because the flu is caused by the influenza virus, antibiotics are not effective in treating it. Antibiotics are only effective in treating bacterial infections.
Most people with the flu start feeling better in about a week or so, but it is important to rest, drink plenty of fluids, and if you have a fever or severe muscle pain, take an over-the-counter medication such as ibuprofen. Always call your doctor if you are extremely ill or if you develop any unusual signs or symptoms. You may need to seek urgent care treatment if you develop any of the following symptoms of the flu.
Purple Spots
If you notice pinpoint purple spots on your body during your bout with the flu, seek urgent care services. These spots are known as petechiae, and usually mean that bleeding is occurring underneath the skin. They can be caused by a platelet disorder known as thrombocytopenia, which can be caused by a viral infection such as the flu.
Petechiae can also be caused by a serious underlying medical disorder, certain medications, or even an allergic reaction. The physician at the urgent care center may recommend a complete blood count or CBC. This test will tell the doctor if your platelets are low or if you have anemia, which may also cause petechiae.
If no underlying cause can be found, the physician may simply tell you that the purple spots are the result of the flu and that they will fade once the infection has cleared your system. If your complete blood count is abnormal, however, the doctor will refer you back to your primary care physician for further evaluation.
Cardiac Symptoms
Certain viral infections can cause a cardiac condition known as myocarditis, or the inflammation of the myocardium, which is the muscular part of your heart. If you develop chest pain, shortness of breath, or if you feel as though your heart is pounding, seek treatment as soon as possible.
You will need a chest x-ray, electrocardiogram, or an echocardiogram, which is an ultrasound study of your heart, to determine why you experiencing your symptoms. If you have myocarditis, you may need to be hospitalized so that you can be treated and monitored. Your treatment may include intravenous fluids, antibiotics, and heart medications.
If you have the flu and develop any of the above symptoms, seek medical attention as soon as possible. When the above symptoms are evaluated and treated early, you will be less likely to experience complications such as a secondary infection or a serious cardiovascular event.
For more information, clinics like the 75th St Injury & Illness Center can help.
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