Blog Post

As the summer months wane, the onset of cooler days and chilly nights during the fall also bring increased risks of upper respiratory infections, such as influenza. Flu season officially begins in October, which is why medical professionals often recommend vaccinations at the start of fall. 

Still, in some years the flu may not arrive until winter and as late as the following January.

How long the flu season lasts varies from year to year, but if you do get infected, it’s not unusual to have a mild case that goes away in a couple of weeks. 

If you experience severe symptoms, you may need assistance navigating this illness, and an IV infusion can be a valuable resource in helping you recover.

Our dedicated medical staff at Houston Medical ER helps residents of the Houston and Spring, Texas, area with a range of acute and chronic problems, including managing the symptoms of the flu.

Flu symptoms

Upper respiratory infections are common, and the flu shares signs with several of them. You likely have this virus if your symptoms include:

• Headaches and body aches
• Loss of appetite
• Chills
• Fever
• Nasal congestion
• Sore throat
• Fatigue
• Dry, lingering cough 

Other signs include dizziness, sneezing, and wheezing, with nausea and vomiting more common in children. Often, the virus symptoms start about four days after infection and last for up to two weeks, although some symptoms can persist longer.

Severe signs and complications

Often, patients manage flu symptoms at home or with antiviral medications. Still, you may need more medical attention to treat possible severe signs, such as:

• Severe sore throat
• Bluish skin
• High fever (over 103 F)
• Extreme tiredness
• Breathing problems 

You should also seek medical help if most symptoms last longer than two weeks, grow more severe, or come with a painful earache. 

Several complications also come from the viral infection in more severe cases, including pneumonia and stomach flu, which in children and the elderly can lead to dehydration.

How IV therapy helps

IV, or intravenous, therapy works by delivering medications, nutrients, and other vital chemicals directly into the bloodstream. This works more swiftly than taking medicine and nutrients by mouth, which must navigate your digestive system. 

It also allows us to better control the dosage you receive. We use this and several other treatment options to manage the flu.

IV therapy for treating severe flu symptoms alleviates them faster and helps your body get vitamins, minerals, and medications to eliminate the virus, manage severe signs like dehydration, and help your body recover. 

The result restores fluid balance, strengthens the immune system, and reduces fatigue.

The flu is an acute condition that often lasts only a couple of weeks, but if your symptoms are severe and not improving, contact us at Houston Medical ER today to receive treatment that can help rid you of this viral infection.