Flu like symptoms could also be due to COVID 19 infection. Treating COVID in earlier phase could mean you going to the Hospital versus getting better sooner. At American Urgent Care And Walk-In Clinics we treat COVID infections like no other clinic in the area. We have successfully treated hundreds of COVID patients.
Let’s face it: illness happens to all of us. Even if you exercise, eat healthy, and get the sleep you need, a cold or the flu will likely catch up with you at some point. And both can bring a nagging cough in addition to many other symptoms. At American Urgent Care & Walk-In Clinics in Wildwood, FL, we see patients with a range of illnesses every day. The best advice we can give is to familiarize yourself with typical ailments so you know what to expect from them.
Getting to the Bottom of Colds
When you’re dealing with body aches, chills, and fever, it can be difficult to know what infection you have – if any. Colds are generally milder in nature than the flu, which can be fairly aggressive and require more time to overcome. Symptoms commonly experienced with the former include:
- Aches and pains
- Headaches
- Sore throat
- Watery eyes
- Sneezing
- Mild fatigue
- Runny or stuffy nose
Understanding This Common Affliction
A cold is a contagious infection of the upper respiratory system, affecting the sinuses, throat, nose, and windpipe (trachea). It can be caused by more than 200 different viruses, although the most common culprit is a rhinovirus. These infections happen with routine frequency. You can expect to endure more upper respiratory infections in your life than any other illness. Adults usually have two or three annually, while children can catch four or more per year.
To become infected, the virus must enter one of your mucus membranes. These are moist linings that protect the mouth, eyes, and nostrils. You may become infected when you touch a surface that contains the virus and then touch your face. But viruses can also get passed in the air, such as when an infected person sneezes. If you breathe in those mobile droplets, the virus may breach your body’s defenses.
A Seasonal Disadvantage
It’s possible to catch a rhinovirus or similar illness any time of year, but you are at the greatest risk during winter. Here’s why: in cooler months, people stay indoors more and have closer contact with each other. This makes it easy for contagious infections to spread.
Most people try to relieve symptoms with over-the-counter medications that have, at best, moderate effects. Symptoms usually last between seven and 10 days and are not caused by the illness itself but by the immune system’s efforts to get rid of it.
What Is Influenza?
This illness is also widespread during the winter months but can come on at any time. It is caused by only one virus and is more likely than a cold to present fever and chills. Body aches are also more common. Although any virus may lead to complications down the road, influenza can be life-threatening for children, the elderly, and patients with compromised immunity. Symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Fever and/or chills
- Occasional runny or stuffy nose
- Aches and pains
- Occasional sore throat
- Diarrhea
Learn About Cough
This spontaneous reflex occurs when irritants like germs, dust, or mucus enter your throat and airways. It’s intended to help protect the body and can propel air and particles out of your body at speeds of almost 50 miles per hour. Occasional coughing is perfectly normal, but when it doesn’t go away or becomes excessive, you may have an underlying illness.
A host of factors can cause an acute cough, which is one that lasts less than two months. These factors include:
- Upper respiratory infections
- Hay fever or other allergies
- Inhalation of irritants
- Lower respiratory tract infections
- Postnasal drip
Different Varieties
Coughs come in many varieties, each with distinct characteristics that can help identify if you have an illness. One that brings up phlegm or mucus is productive and may suggest bronchitis or pneumonia. One that doesn’t produce mucus is called dry or nonproductive.
Those of an acute nature rarely need medical attention, while those that have been lingering without getting better should prompt you to visit our office. Likewise, if you have additional symptoms like drowsiness, headache, or fever, you should be seen by one of our staff members.
When to Visit Urgent Care
Urgent care can also help if you’re having trouble eating and/or cannot keep anything down. Your body can quickly become dehydrated and suffer detrimental health effects. A final sign to watch for is a lingering fever of 100.4 degrees F or higher. This may indicate your body is fighting a serious infection that requires antibiotics.
Feel Better Sooner
Viruses are not only miserable but also highly contagious. Having a thorough examination at our office can lead to a quick diagnosis to help you feel better and reduce community spread. For instance, anti-nausea medications can relieve stomach discomfort and help you get the nourishment you need. Intravenous fluids can also be administered if you show signs of dehydration.
Keep in mind children and infants are more susceptible to viruses than adults. It is therefore important they receive medical attention at the earliest signs of illness. We can additionally provide instructions for home care to help you mend more quickly. Some of the most common recommendations we make include:
- Staying home from school or work for at least 24 hours after a fever has subsided
- Getting plenty of rest
- Drinking liquids to hydrate the body
Treatment Options
Colds and flu cannot be cured with antibiotics because they’re caused by viruses rather than bacteria. Instead, treatment should focus on reducing your symptoms. Antihistamines, for example, can dry out the nose, while decongestants can relieve a stuffy nose. Nasal steroids can relieve sinus pressure and expectorants can help loosen mucus production.
Any Time Is the Right Time
If you suspect you have a virus, you don’t have to wait to receive medical attention. Sometimes simply receiving a diagnosis can provide the peace of mind you need to feel better. And coming in sooner rather than later can help prevent additional complications later. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.
