What Happens When an Adult Gets the Flu? [Primary Care]

Getting the flu is never enjoyable, especially as an adult, but thankfully, primary care physicians are able to manage and treat the flu so patients can get back to their healthy, normal lives.

While most people have experienced the flu once in their life, it is also possible that some people have not. It is important to be aware of what happens when an adult gets the flu so that preparatory measures can be taken. Additionally, knowing exactly what steps to take once the flu is in full swing can be helpful.

What happens when an adult gets the flu?

Outlined below is important information regarding what happens when an adult gets the flu.

Symptoms

Most of the time, the symptoms that come along with the flu consist of a high fever, runny nose, sore throat, headaches, chills and sometimes vomiting.

What to do

Many people experience the flu once a year or so. When an adult gets the flu, it can be quite brutal. The first thing to do is to begin at-home remedies to help with the symptoms. The best things an adult can do at home include the following:

• Rest
• Drink fluids, especially water and beverages with vitamin C
• Take over-the-counter flu medication to help with symptoms
• Eat healthy foods such as vegetables and fruits

Most of the time, the flu can be treated through these at-home remedies. However, there are times in which an adult just cannot get rid of their flu. In these cases, it is best to visit a primary care physician to undergo a thorough evaluation. The evaluation will help the physician determine what treatment plan is necessary.

Treatment from a primary care physician

Because each patient is different, the flu treatment provided by the primary care physician may vary. Some patients will be prescribed a higher dosage of a certain medication, while others may be prescribed a low dose.

Regardless of prescription medications, the primary care physician will also likely recommend rest, time off from work or school and a diet consisting of liquids and healthy foods that are high in nutrients.

The flu should not last more than 10 days, but if it does and the patient is still not getting better, then it is necessary to return to the primary care physician for further evaluation and treatment. In severe cases of the flu, it may be necessary to hospitalize the patient so they can be closely monitored.

Flu treatment from a primary care physician

Any questions or concerns regarding the flu should be addressed by a primary care physician. The flu should never go ignored, and if symptoms last for a long time, it is best to consult a medical professional.

Whether you are suffering from the flu or if you simply have questions, our primary care physicians can help you. Give us a call or stop by our office today so we can better assist you.

Request an appointment here: https://eldridgeclinic.com or call Eldridge Urgent Care & Family Medicine at (281) 946-1351 for an appointment in our Houston office.

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