Upper Respiratory InfectionsHow to Beat Influenza and Stay HealthyUpper Respiratory Infections

Upper Respiratory Infections (URI), also known as the common cold, are among the most prevalent diseases in the world. Influenza, also known as the flu, is a more severe form of URI that can cause more serious health problems. As a patient of Jupiter Internal Medicine Associates, it is important to understand the causes, symptoms, and treatments for URI, including influenza.

URI and influenza are caused by viruses that are spread through close contact with infected individuals. The most common symptoms of URI include a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, and headache. Influenza often causes high fever, body aches, and extreme fatigue in addition to the typical URI symptoms. Both URI and influenza are highly contagious and can spread easily from person to person.

Treatment for Upper Respiratory Infections

Treatment for URI and influenza typically involves symptom management. Over-the-counter medications such as decongestants, cough suppressants, and pain relievers can help alleviate symptoms. Rest and hydration are also important for recovery. In some cases, antiviral medications may be prescribed to treat influenza.

Prevention is key when it comes to URI and influenza. The best way to prevent getting sick is to practice good hygiene. This includes washing your hands frequently, covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals. The flu vaccine is also a highly effective way to prevent influenza. It is recommended that everyone over the age of six months receive a flu vaccine annually.

If you suspect that you have URI or influenza, it is important to seek medical attention. In some cases, a doctor may need to perform tests to confirm the diagnosis. Additionally, individuals with certain health conditions, such as asthma or a weakened immune system, may be at a higher risk for complications from URI or influenza and should seek medical attention promptly.

At Jupiter Internal Medicine Associates, our team of healthcare professionals is dedicated to providing the highest quality care to our patients. If you have any concerns about URI or influenza, please do not hesitate to contact our office. We are committed to helping you stay healthy and well.

Tips for a Speedy Flu Recovery

If you or a family member contracts the flu, you may not see any reason to visit your primary care provider. In some cases, seeing your medical doctor can help with a speedy recovery and prevent significant complications. There is no price to peace of mind. By seeking medical treatment when you don’t feel well, knowing that your body aches are only temporary can alleviate worry.

Symptoms of a Flu

Certain symptoms of the flu overlap with a common cold, but they tend to be more intense. The symptoms of the flu include a sore throat, fatigue, chills, muscle aches, fever over 100˚, nasal congestion, and a dry or wet cough. More severe symptoms include severe or persistent vomiting, chest pain, confusion, dizziness, severe neck stiffness, and a loss of consciousness. If you are experiencing any of the more severe symptoms, you need to visit the emergency room as soon as possible.

Patients that are High Risk for Flu Complications

There are some people at a higher risk of suffering dangerous complications or death from the flu. If you are 65 years or older, have a compromised immune system, have a chronic medical condition, are pregnant, or in a nursing home, you should seek advice from a doctor as soon as possible when diagnosed with the flu. Medications are more effective when they are used within two days after symptoms begin. As a rule of thumb when dealing with the flu, the sooner you seek medical attention, the better.

For those who are not considered high-risk individuals and are experiencing common symptoms, it may not be necessary to go to the hospital. Be sure to rest and drink plenty of fluids. With that being said there are some circumstances where you should go to the hospital. If your fever improves but then suddenly gets worse, your symptoms don’t improve after two weeks, your cough produces mucus, or your pain is centralized in one area (such as your chest), you should seek medical attention. Another valid reason to go to the hospital is peace of mind. If you are worried that your body will not react well to the flu or have you do not feel like you are improving, going to the hospital would be a good idea. Along with making sure you recover, one of the doctor’s main objectives is to make their patients have peace of mind. One way to significantly decrease the chances that you catch the flu is to get the flu vaccine.

At Jupiter Internal Medicine Associates, our medical providers are here to help. We encourage you to schedule a same day sick appointment today. Schedule your comprehensive medical visit to learn more about flu prevention and how to get a flu shot.