Flu season hits every year and affects hundreds of thousands of people across the country. And, while the majority of people can get better on their own with a little time and a lot of fluids, some individuals do need care from a physician. So, keep reading to learn about some things that indicate that you should be calling your local doctor's office for a visit.
Your Fever Goes Away And Then Returns
When you get the flu, your body must mount a fierce immune system response to get rid of it. This means that many of the disease-fighting resources are utilized and exhausted to fight the virus. And, your body can easily get infected by a common bacteria or another microorganism due to this. This is likely what is happening if your fever seems to go away and then returns.
The "returning" fever is often the result of a new infection that your body is fighting off. So, it is not the original sickness, but a brand new one attacking the body at the same time as the flu. Bacterial infections are most common and can cause intestinal, skin, oral, respiratory, circulatory, or respiratory infections.
Circulatory infections like sepsis are a serious concern, so make an appointment with your physician right away if you notice a new fever. The professional will be able to take cultures or bloodwork and they can prescribe antibiotics. If something like sepsis is suspected, then you may be transferred to the hospital for IV medications. In this case, your doctor can often call ahead and get you right into the ER if needed.
You Experience Chest Pain
Chest pain is a sign of a serious problem and it can occur for many different reasons. A heart attack may be occurring or you might be experiencing angina. If you are dealing with a flu virus though, then this can signify that your heart is working overtime. This happens as the heart rate increases in response to the virus. If the heart is not strong enough and if it is also not receiving enough oxygen to work as hard as it has been, then you will experience chest pain.
Chest pain may also be experienced if you are developing respiratory distress syndrome due to the virus.
Your doctor will listen to your heart and your lungs and complete an assessment to figure out what is going on. Sometimes medicines like nitroglycerin and supplemental oxygen are enough to control the problem and you may need some additional cardiovascular support until the flu subsides. Your doctor can help with this. Schedule an appointment at your local doctor's office today.
