Asking Your Doctor About The Flu

The flu is something that many people fear, but know very little about. In fact, most people have no idea what hit them when they finally get to the doctor and are diagnosed with the flu. You can avoid all of the problems with the flu if you get educated on this virus. In fact, there are several questions you can ask your doctor to learn more about the flu and what you should be doing to protect yourself and your family from it each year. Take a look at these questions and figure out exactly what you need to do.

What Are The Symptoms?

Although it may seem silly to wonder what the symptoms of the flu are, there is a really good reason to know what they are. The truth is that the only flu medications to treat the flu are usually only good if you start taking them within the first 48 hours of your first symptoms. This means that knowing the symptoms is more important than ever. If you are not aware of what the symptoms are, you may just brush them off until it is too late to star the medication.

Some of the most common symptoms of the flu are fever, body aches, chills, sore throat, rash, and overall fatigue. Some people describe the feelings as if they are being run over by a train. Although that may be a little extreme, having the flu makes you feel bad overall. There is likely not a part of your body that will feel good when you have the flu.

How Can I Protect Myself?

Another great question to ask your doctor when it comes to the flu is how to protect yourself. Protecting yourself is one of the smartest things you can do during flu season. One thing you can do is make sure you wash your hands frequently throughout the day. It is extremely important to wash your hands before eating, touching your nose, eyes, or mouth. In fact, try to avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth unless you absolutely must. These are the main ways the flu virus can travel into your body. Eating a healthy and well balanced diet as well as exercising can also help you boost your immune system, which can help you avoid the flu or at least deal with it better if you do get the flu.

Do I Need A Flu Shot?

Another way you can protect yourself is by getting a flu shot. Many people choose to avoid getting their flu shot each year. Healthy people often think they have no reason to worry about getting their flu shot. However, once you get the flu and go through the aches and pains of it all, you will likely not miss another flu shot. Having the flu once is enough to help you remember to get that flu shot each year. If you have another condition, are over the age of 65, or have another major reason to be at a higher risk for getting the flu, you need to get that flu shot!