The Stages of the Flu

No one likes getting sick, but understanding the stages of the flu can help you recognize the symptoms early and get on the road to recovery faster. The flu moves through several phases, each with its own set of challenges. Find out how the flu progresses, when to seek treatment, and how Xpress Wellness Urgent Care is here to help. 

Stage 1: The Sneaky Start

At first, the flu might feel like a simple cold. You may have a sore throat, mild body aches, or a little fatigue. Some people may also experience nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea at the start of their flu infection. But unlike the cold, flu symptoms tend to hit harder and faster. If you start feeling unusually rundown, a flu test can determine if you’re dealing with influenza. If you test positive for the flu, rest up and stay hydrated — your body is gearing up for a bigger battle. 

Stage 2: The Full-On Flu 

Symptoms of the flu peak within a day or two of their onset. Fever, chills, body aches, cough, and fatigue are in full force, making even simple tasks feel exhausting. The flu is most contagious during this phase, so limit exposure by staying home and resting. Continue to drink lots of fluids and take pain and fever relievers as needed. If you have a high fever, worsening symptoms, or experience difficulty breathing, a visit to Xpress Wellness Urgent Care can help you manage the worst of it. 

Stage 3: The Long Goodbye 

After a few days your fever will break, and you’ll start feeling a little better. But the cough, congestion, and fatigue from the flu can linger for weeks. Continue to focus on rest and hydration, and ease into your recovery slowly. Most people recover from the flu within a couple weeks, but if your symptoms return after you’ve been feeling better, or if symptoms linger, Xpress Wellness Urgent Care can rule out pneumonia or other complications that can sometimes stem from the flu. 

Support from Xpress Wellness Urgent Care

Staying on top of your health makes all the difference — especially in the face of the flu. When you start feeling under the weather, Xpress Wellness Urgent Care is here to help you feel better, faster. Find a location near you for quick and convenient flu testing and treatment, or request a virtual visit to discuss your concerns and symptoms.