The seasonal flu can appear suddenly, making it important to receive the best treatment for the flu as soon as you know you have it. Knowing when to seek prompt medical attention empowers you to recover safely and avoid complications. An urgent care center offers a rapid response to your needs and can provide the most appropriate treatment.
Let us discuss which flu symptoms warrant urgent evaluation, what to expect from your visit, and how urgent care can support you on your road to recovery.
Symptoms That Warrant an Urgent Care Visit
Many individuals with the flu will improve with rest and self-care. However, there are certain symptoms that will need the attention of a professional healthcare provider. These symptoms might indicate a more severe case of the flu or other complications.
Please seek medical care if you or a loved one experiences:
Shortness of Breath
A persistent cough is common with the flu, but shortness of breath should be taken seriously. It may indicate respiratory distress, pneumonia, or, in some cases, underlying heart conditions. Evaluation by a healthcare provider is necessary to identify and address the root cause.
Chest Pain
Chest pain, tightness, or a burning sensation that accompanies the flu can result from inflammation of the respiratory tract. However, if chest pain develops alongside symptoms such as bluish lips or lightheadedness, urgent assessment is recommended.
At Cardinal Urgent Care, our team can perform chest x-rays and diagnostic testing to promptly determine the cause and initiate appropriate care.
Severe or Persistent Vomiting
Although vomiting and diarrhea occur more commonly in children, they can affect any age group and may lead to dehydration or electrolyte imbalances. Symptoms that last for a long time will likely need the attention of a healthcare provider.
Our urgent care professionals can provide intravenous fluids and medications to stabilize your condition.
High Fever
After a bout with the flu, your immune system may be temporarily weakened, making you susceptible to secondary bacterial infections. If symptoms return after initial improvement, especially with a persistent high fever, it is crucial to seek medical evaluation.
One of our providers will determine whether additional treatment, such as antibiotics, is necessary.
Treatment Options Available at Urgent Care
Seeking care early supports smoother recovery and helps protect those around you. It also helps you receive the best treatment for the flu for your specific case. Here is what you can expect when visiting urgent care for the flu:
Flu Testing
Timely flu testing is the first step in determining the best course of treatment. Urgent care providers can perform a quick nasal or throat swab.
Flu tests at an urgent care center are generally very accurate and do not take long. You can expect to have your results within an hour in most cases.
Getting an early diagnosis can help prevent further complications. It also lets our team tailor a treatment plan to your specific case.
Managing Flu Symptoms
Common flu symptoms—including fever, sore throat, and congestion—can be disruptive and physically draining. At urgent care, clinicians offer guidance on symptom management. You might also receive a recommendation for over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
It is also important to remember that hydration and rest remain central to your recovery. Resting lets your body devote more of its resources to fighting off the infection.
If symptoms are prolonged, a careful assessment will rule out other possible causes.
Antiviral Medications
Some cases may need antiviral medication. These drugs help reduce the severity and duration of flu symptoms. The individuals who might be at higher risk of flu-related complications are:
- Adults aged 65 or older
- Young children
- Pregnant individuals
- Individuals with chronic conditions or weakened immune systems
It is best to take these medications within 48 hours of noticing symptoms. Receiving medication promptly can help prevent more serious outcomes.
Flu Vaccination
Prevention remains the most effective way to safeguard your health. Annual flu shots, available at urgent care centers, offer proven protection for both adults and children.
Vaccination reduces your risk of serious illness, lowers rates of complications, and helps protect vulnerable members of the community.
Benefits of Visiting an Urgent Care Center
Visiting an urgent care center helps ensure that you receive a prompt diagnosis and flu treatment.
Convenience
Urgent care centers often have extended hours and can accept walk-in patients. You can receive medical attention outside of typical business hours, including evenings and weekends.
Timely Service
Shorter waiting times allow for prompt evaluation by experienced providers. Urgent care centers help improve outcomes by addressing health concerns before they become more serious.
Comprehensive Resources
On-site testing and laboratory services facilitate timely diagnosis and treatment planning. This means you can get treatment on the same visit as you receive your diagnosis.
Affordability
When it comes to non-emergency medical concerns, urgent care centers aim to provide cost-effective care. This typically means lower out-of-pocket costs compared to visiting the ER.
Personalized Care
Providers at urgent care centers take the time to assess your individual needs, offering tailored recommendations and treatment plans that address your unique health concerns.
This patient-centered approach ensures you receive timely support without unnecessary delay or expense.
Best Treatment for Flu in King, NC
Flu symptoms can be very severe. It is important to get flu treatment as soon as possible. An urgent care center can provide a rapid diagnosis and treatment to help address your symptoms. At the same time, visiting an urgent care center for flu treatment is often both convenient and affordable.
Cardinal Urgent Care is here to help by providing effective flu treatment. Call us today at (336) 983-9111 or use our convenient appointment scheduling tool to schedule a consultation. Your health and well-being are our top priority—let us partner with you on your path to recovery.
