Flu season is just around the corner, and that means getting a flu shot should be at the top of your to-do list.
But have you ever wondered whether a nasty bout of the flu needs a trip to the emergency room? If you have, you’re not alone. Every flu season, thousands of people flood ERs seeking treatment for their flu symptoms. But most of the time, an ER visit isn’t necessary.
We’re here to help break it down for you. From symptoms and when to visit the doctor to when you should go to the ER for the flu, we’ve got you covered.
Symptoms of the Flu
In general, you can assume you have influenza — or the flu —and not a garden-variety cold if your symptoms are severe and accompanied by a fever.
Flu symptoms may include:
- Chills
- Cough
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Muscle pain/body aches
- Sore throat
Flu symptoms can come on suddenly. Treating them with over-the-counter medications, getting plenty of rest and drinking lots of fluids provide relief for most people with the flu.
When to Go to the Doctor for Flu
Even if you’re getting plenty of rest, staying hydrated, and using over-the-counter medications, the flu can still leave you feeling miserable — sometimes so run down you can’t get out of bed for a day or two. While that can be alarming, it’s still best to call your doctor before heading to the emergency room, unless symptoms are severe or life-threatening.
Flu symptoms typically last up to a week. If your symptoms begin to improve but then return with a fever, reach out to your doctor. This may be a sign of a secondary infection or worsening illness. If you have young children, older adults, or family members with weakened immune systems or chronic health conditions, be especially cautious — these groups are more vulnerable to complications and should be evaluated by a doctor early on.
One of the best ways to protect yourself and your loved ones is by staying up to date on your annual influenza vaccination. Getting the flu shot can help prevent the flu altogether or lessen the severity of symptoms if you do get sick. If you are diagnosed with the flu, your doctor may also prescribe antiviral medications. These treatments are most effective when started early and can reduce the duration and intensity of the illness — helping you recover faster and lowering the risk of serious complications.
When to Go to the ER for Flu
Still, there are times when you should go to the hospital for the flu, such as when you or a loved one experiences severe dehydration, which can show up as:
- Confusion
- Dark-colored urine
- Extreme thirst
- Severe or consistent vomiting
Other signs of a flu-related emergency include severe chest or abdominal pain, difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
Warning signs are slightly different for children and infants, too. If you have a child with any of the following symptoms, you should take them to the ER with the flu:
- A bluish color to the skin
- A severe headache
- A stiff neck
- An inability to take in fluids
- Trouble urinating
Also, if you have an infant, watch out for the following red flags:
- A fever over 100.3 (in a baby under 3 months old)
- An absence of tears while crying
- An inability to eat
- Fewer wet diapers than normal
Our Emergency Options
At AdventHealth, we offer on-demand care wherever you are. From comprehensive ERs to pediatric urgent care centers, you can find responsive and immediate emergency medical treatment whenever you need it.
Find an AdventHealth location that’s convenient for you.
