Think you might have the flu and question whether you need to see a doctor? We’re here to help you navigate the level of care you need.
CDC Recommendations When Battling the Flu
The CDC recommends you stay home if you are sick, regardless if you have tested positive for influenza.
Most people with flu have mild illness and do not need medical care or antiviral drugs. Stay home and avoid contact with others if you have flu symptoms.
Emergency rooms and other acute care facilities are intended for people who are very sick. Mild cold and flu symptoms can and should be treated at home.
What are some of the mild symptoms you can experience with the flu?
Flu symptoms usually come on suddenly. These mild symptoms listed below can be managed at home without consultation from a medical provider.
Common flu symptoms:
- Fever* or feeling feverish/chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headaches
- Fatigue (tiredness)
- Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.
*It’s important to note that not everyone with flu will have a fever. The flu can cause mild to severe illness and sometimes lead to death.
What to do if you think you might be getting the flu?
Getting sick is never fun, but if you think you’re getting the flu, it’s important to stay calm. Here’s what you can do:
- Assess your symptoms and determine whether you can care for yourself at home.
- Contact a provider if your symptoms are severe. Or, treat yourself at home.
- Isolate yourself from others to prevent the spreading of the illness.
- Follow your doctor’s treatment instructions. Or, if you’re self-treating at home, be sure to get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and take over-the-counter medication to manage symptoms as needed.
Should I go to the doctor if I think I have the flu?
Often, flu symptoms can be managed at home. This option is preferable as it prevents the illness from spreading to others and allows you to get the rest and care you need in your home.
Most symptoms should dissipate in 4-7 days, but if yours last longer or don’t match typical flu symptoms, you may want to consider whether your condition can be managed through a telehealth visit.
Online Care for Flu Symptoms and Concerns
Online Care or Telehealth is a good option if you are still determining the level of care you need. The Urgency Room has telehealth services available daily from 8 am to 8 pm. No appointment is necessary.
- Log in and complete an online questionnaire (the average visit takes less than 10 minutes)
- Your information will be reviewed by one of our Urgency Room providers within an hour.
- Should your provider determine you need to be tested (flu, step, COVID) they will instruct you to present to an Urgency Room location AFTER your visit for the test only.
- No need to wait—we will let you know when your results are ready.
How can I treat minor symptoms of the flu?
Take acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) to reduce fever and muscle aches.
(Don’t give products containing aspirin to children or teens recovering from chickenpox or flu-like symptoms. Aspirin has been linked to Reye’s syndrome, a rare but potentially life-threatening condition in such children).
Drink clear fluids, such as water, broth, or sports drinks. Consider over-the-counter medications for cough and congestion as needed.
Rest as needed or change some of your activities, depending on your symptoms. Stay home and avoid public places to prevent the risk of spreading illness. Self-isolate for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone without using fever-reducing medications.
Most people feel better within a week of becoming infected with the flu virus. However, coughing may last for another one or two weeks.
What are the emergency warning signs of flu and how to tell if you need to seek treatment?
People experiencing any of these warning signs should seek medical care right away. If you think you are experiencing a medical emergency, dial 911.
In Children:
- Fast breathing or trouble breathing
- Bluish lips or face
- Ribs pulling in with each breath
- Chest pain
- Severe muscle pain (child refuses to walk)
- Dehydration (no urine for 8 hours, dry mouth, no tears when crying)
- Not alert or interacting when awake
- Seizures
- Fever above 104°F
- In children less than 12 weeks, and fever
- Fever or cough that improves but then returns or worsens
- Worsening chronic medical condition
In Adults:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Persistent pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
- Persistent dizziness, confusion, inability to arouse
- Seizures
- Not urinating
- Severe muscle pain
- Severe weakness or unsteadiness
- Fever or cough that improves but then returns or worsens
- Worsening of chronic medical conditions
These lists are not all-inclusive. Please consult your medical provider for any other severe or concerning symptoms.
I Think I Have the Flu While Pregnant
If you’re pregnant and experiencing flu-like symptoms, contacting a healthcare professional is essential. Experts recommend the use of antivirals to treat pregnant people with the flu to prevent early labor and other risks.
If you think you need treatment, we’re here. Start an online visit or visit us in person. We’re here to support you.
These recommendations come to us from the CDC as a trusted resource. Visit CDC.gov for more information.