Urgent Care Insights: When to Head to the ER for Flu-Like Symptoms
Respiratory viruses, including COVID-19, RSV, and influenza, continue to impact the U.S. population significantly. Understanding when to seek medical assistance for a respiratory infection is crucial for ensuring timely care. In this article, you’ll discover essential information about respiratory illnesses, when to visit the ER, and preventive measures you can take.
While spring is approaching, winter respiratory viruses remain prevalent, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). As of February 19, nine states are experiencing “very high” rates of respiratory illnesses, with the flu demonstrating a notable case positivity rate of 27%, marking an increase from the 16% reported during the same period last year.
Though most individuals recover from respiratory illnesses with mild symptoms, such as a sore throat or cough, some cases necessitate emergency care. Here’s a breakdown of the serious symptoms that should prompt a trip to the emergency room.
When to Go to the ER
Symptoms caused by respiratory illnesses can differ somewhat based on the virus. Common symptoms include:
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Fever
- Chills
- Body aches
- Fatigue
However, if you notice your symptoms worsening, it’s essential to seek emergency medical attention. This applies whether you’re dealing with the flu, COVID-19, RSV, or an unknown respiratory infection.
Severe dehydration is one critical sign to watch for, especially if you’re feeling too unwell to eat or drink. Dr. Benjamin Barlow, an emergency medicine physician, emphasizes that symptoms of dehydration may include:
- Dark yellow urine
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Headaches
If you experience fainting, confusion, or a rapid heartbeat, these could signify severe dehydration, requiring intravenous fluids.
Breathing difficulties can indicate either extreme dehydration or possibly pneumonia and low oxygen levels. Dr. Barlow states, “Any time people are feeling short of breath, that’s a major warning sign.” Increased shortness of breath also indicates the necessity for hydration or oxygen therapy.
A bluish tint to your lips and fingers is another concerning sign of low oxygen levels, according to Dr. Andrea Giamalva. She advises that such symptoms warrant an ER visit, especially if you feel excessively lethargic and struggle to get out of bed.
Children should be monitored closely for red-flag symptoms, as they might not communicate how they feel effectively. Watch for:
- Heavy or labored breathing
- Sunken eyes
For infants under three months, a fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher is an immediate reason to consult an emergency room or pediatrician, advises Dr. Tanya Altmann.
Who’s Most at Risk for Severe Symptoms?
Individuals at the highest risk for severe respiratory virus complications include:
- Pregnant individuals
- The elderly
- Young children
- Those with preexisting medical conditions
Dr. Michael A. Bernstein notes that the elderly and young children are significantly affected, particularly individuals with multiple medical issues, including compromised immune systems or respiratory conditions. According to the CDC, older adults constitute a staggering 50% to 75% of flu hospitalizations, and the majority of COVID-related hospitalizations in 2023 involved adults aged 65 and older. Additionally, around 100,000 to 150,000 adults in this age bracket experience annual RSV-related hospitalizations.
How to Prevent Severe Illness
The best strategy to avoid severe respiratory illnesses is through vaccination. The CDC recommends that individuals aged six months and older receive annual flu and COVID-19 vaccinations. An RSV vaccine is also available for expectant mothers and those over 65, while infants younger than eight months can receive monoclonal antibodies, which have proven effective in preventing hospitalizations.
In addition to vaccinations, other preventive measures include:
- Washing hands frequently and thoroughly
- Disinfecting commonly-touched surfaces
- Avoiding crowded indoor spaces
- Refraining from touching your face with unwashed hands
If you do catch an illness, over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol or Motrin can mitigate symptoms and promote recovery. Dr. Bernstein suggests these medications help you maintain hydration and nutrition, which are crucial for your body’s healing process.
Your healthcare provider may also prescribe treatment to reduce the severity of COVID or influenza, but timely action is critical. For example, Tamiflu, an antiviral for influenza, is typically most effective when taken within a couple of days of symptom onset. Medications for COVID-19, like Paxlovid or Lagevrio, can be prescribed within five days after symptoms begin.
While there are no antiviral treatments for RSV, gathering accurate information regarding the specific virus causing your illness enables healthcare providers to give you more targeted care and expectations for your recovery.
