Questions About Seasonal And H1N1 Flu?
When To See A Doctor
Most people with mild to moderate flu symptoms will recover at home without medical care or prescription treatment such as antiviral medications. But, if your symptoms become significantly more severe, call your doctor or healthcare provider. He or she will decide whether you need an appointment or medical treatment. Talk to your doctor ahead of time if you have a higher risk for flu complications:
People With A Higher Risk Include The Following:
• Babies under 2 years old
• Seniors
• Pregnant women
People With Chronic Conditions Such As:
• Asthma or diabetes
• Disorders affecting the heart, lungs, blood, liver or kidneys
• Weakened immune systems (ex. w/HIV).
• On long-term aspirin therapy and under 18 years old
When To Seek Emergency Care
Use the emergency room wisely! Call your doctor or a medical clinic first. Anyone with any of the following severe flu-symptoms should be taken to the nearest emergency room.
In Children:
• Fever with a rash
• Fast breathing or trouble breathing
• Bluish skin color
• Dehydration; not drinking enough fluids
• Not waking up or not interacting
• Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
• Flu-like symptoms improve but then return and cough worsens
In Adults:
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
• Sudden dizziness
• Confusion
• Severe or persistent vomiting
Be wise; think twice before going to the ER
• If you have severe flu symptoms, the emergency room is the place to get good care.
• If your symptoms are mild to moderate or you want a flu test, call your physician or a local health clinic instead.
• If you go to an emergency room unnecessarily, you could be exposed to the flu.