Influenza

Influenza, sometimes called the flu, is a very contagious illness that occurs in children or adults of any age. It is more common in the winter months as people spend more time in close contact with each other. At ViteleDoc, a telehealth practice serving patients in California and Oregon, virtual urgent care provider Dustin Jacot, PA-C, provides virtual diagnosis and treatment for influenza. Virtual visits provide access to extended and after hours care without the hassle of going to the emergency room (ER). Book online or call Dustin today to receive treatment for the flu.

What is influenza? 

Influenza (flu) is a viral infection of the respiratory system such as the lungs, throat and nose. Influenza is often called the flu, but it's important to know that this is not the same virus that causes stomach "flu" which may cause diarrhea and vomiting. 

Coughing, sneezing or touching surfaces helps the flu spread easily from person to person. More than 200,000 people in the United States are hospitalized every year due to complications of the flu, especially the very young, older adults and people who have certain illnesses such as asthma.

Flu is usually self-limiting, but sometimes influenza and its complications can be deadly. People at higher risk of these complications may need treatment including:

• Children younger than age 2 
• Adults over age 65 
• People living in long-term care facilities or residents of nursing homes 
• People who are pregnant or are planning to be pregnant during the flu season
• People with a weakened immune system 
• American Indians or Alaska Natives
• Patients with chronic illnesses such as liver disease, diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease and asthma
• People with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher

What are the symptoms of influenza?

While the flu is similar to a common cold, it tends to come on suddenly and makes you feel much worse than a common cold. 

Frequent symptoms of the flu include:

• Fever
• Aching muscles
• Chills and sweats
• Headache
• Dry, persistent cough
• Shortness of breath
• Tiredness and weakness
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sore throat
• Eye pain
• Vomiting and diarrhea (this is more common in children than adults)

How is influenza diagnosed?

At ViteleDoc, Dustin uses virtual visits to diagnose and treat influenza. He reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms such as when your symptoms started, also any exposure to influenza. He then determines whether you have any medical conditions that increase your risk of serious complications or whether you've tried any home remedies like over-the-counter decongestants. 

Next, Dustin asks about your lifestyle, including if you smoke, how often you exercise, and if you take any prescription medication. Then, he completes a virtual exam. During the exam, Dustin listens to you breathe and cough. He also has you point your phone or computer camera at your throat, so he can check for redness, inflammation, or swollen tonsils. 

When to see a provider

If you are at risk of complications and have flu symptoms, it's very important to see a provider right away. Taking antiviral medication helps shorten the length of flu illness and more importantly, prevents more-serious problems. At ViteleDoc, we're ready to provide this important service to you from the comfort of your own device at home or while traveling. 

Some symptoms of the flu become very severe. If you're an adult with these symptoms, get emergency medical care right away:

• Difficulty breathing 
• Pain in the chest
• Seizures
• Severe muscle pain or weakness

For Children, emergency symptoms can include:

• Difficulty breathing 
• The skin appearing pale, gray or blue-colored skin, lips or nail beds — depending on skin color
• Pain in the chest 
• Dehydration
• Severe pain in the muscles
• Seizures

How is influenza treated?

Treatment of influenza often includes a combination of rest and keeping your throat hydrated. Dustin also treats influenza with a prescription such as antiviral medication. Depending on your medical history and whether you are in a higher risk category, Dustin might recommend:

• Antiviral medication
• Bronchodilators (drugs that help you breathe)
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Cough suppressants

Influenza is contagious, Dustin also recommends staying home and washing your hands regularly. If you’re around others, make sure to cough into your sleeve or elbow.

How can I reduce my risk of influenza?

Influenza vaccination is the best way to prevent getting the flu. The influenza vaccine, however, is only partially effective, so it's also important to take several measures to reduce the spread of infection, including:

• Frequent hand washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds 
• Avoid touching your mouth, nose and eyes 
• Cough or sneeze into your elbow and wash your hands after
• Clean surfaces regularly to prevent spread of infection
• Avoid crowds during peak flu season 

It is important to avoid being around anyone who is sick. If you feel sick, stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone to reduce the chance of infecting others.  

Click the online booking feature or call ViteleDoc today to receive treatment for influenza.