If you’ve ever come down with the flu, you know it’s more than just a “bad cold”. It comes on fast and hits hard. You start the day out fine and out of nowhere, you spike a fever, you’ve got chills, your energy is completely drained, and every muscle in your body aches. When you’re hit with the flu, you might be wondering if you should just try to treat it at home or if you should head to an urgent care clinic.
If you’re located in Oklahoma or Kansas, the team at Xpress Wellness Urgent Care can help you decide how to treat the flu. Our conveniently located clinics offer walk-in flu testing and treatment, so you can get the relief you need quickly and get back to your regular routine in no time.
Common Flu Symptoms
Short for influenza, the flu is a common respiratory illness that affects people of all ages. It’s highly contagious and there are several modes of transmission, including coughing, sneezing, and even talking. Generally, flu symptoms come on suddenly and can range from mild to severe. Hallmark flu symptoms include:
- Fever and chills
- Muscle or body aches
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Dry or persistent cough
- Weakness or fatigue
- Headaches
In some cases, vomiting and diarrhea can also occur, though these symptoms tend to be more common in children. While symptoms and severity vary from person to person, if you feel like you’ve been “run over by a bus” (body aches and loss of energy), chances are it’s the flu.
When It’s Safe to Treat the Flu at Home
Most healthy adults and children can safely recover from the flu at home. Self-treatment should include plenty of rest and lots of fluids. Over-the-counter medications can also be used to ease symptoms.
Generally, it’s safe to treat the flu at home if:
- The symptoms you’re experiencing are mild
- You’re keeping fluids down and can stay hydrated
- You’re able to eat and rest comfortably
- You’re able to keep your fever under control
To manage flu symptoms at home, consider the following tips:
- Get plenty of rest to give your body the energy it needs to recover.
- Drink lots of fluids to stay hydrated, such as water, tea, and broth.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers or fever reducers as directed.
- Use a humidifier or take warm showers or baths to relieve congestion.
If you’re successfully managing your symptoms and they aren’t worsening, it’s likely safe to wait it out at home until you fully recover. However, if your flu symptoms persist for more than a week or become more intense, you should consider seeking medical care.
When to Go to Urgent Care for the Flu
Should you go to urgent care for flu? If the symptoms you are experiencing are moderate or severe from the start, if they intensify over time, or if you’re not sure if it’s the flu or something else (such as COVID, bronchitis, or other viral infections, for example), going to urgent care is recommended.
At Xpress Wellness Urgent Care, our clinics provide:
- Rapid flu testing to confirm your diagnosis.
- Treatment and symptom relief for fever, headaches, body aches, and congestion.
- Prescription antiviral medications, if deemed appropriate.
- Tips, advice, and support to help ensure a safe recovery.
It’s important to note that antiviral medications are most effective when administered within 48 hours of symptom onset. Don’t delay care, as early treatment can make a big difference in your recovery.
When to Seek Emergency Care
In certain cases, the flu may require emergency medical attention. If you or a loved one is experiencing any of the following, going to the ER or calling 911 is recommended:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Chest pain or pressure
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
- Sudden and severe dizziness and confusion
- High fever accompanied by a rash
- Worsening symptoms
These symptoms can indicate serious medical conditions that require immediate treatment, such as pneumonia and even meningitis. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health.
Fast, Convenient Flu Testing and Treatment at Xpress Wellness Urgent Care
If you’re experiencing symptoms and wondering “Should I go to urgent care for flu?”, the answer is: Yes! While many can recover safely without medical attention, when it comes to your health, you shouldn’t take chances.
Xpress Wellness Urgent Care is ready to assist you with all your flu care needs. With clinics throughout Oklahoma and Kansas, we make it easy to get the treatment you need. Our licensed providers will assess your symptoms, perform a diagnostic flu test, and offer the care you need. You don’t need an appointment, either; find a location near you and walk in or check in online before you arrive for an even shorter wait time. We’ll help get you back to feeling like yourself again in no time.
