Flu Treatment Clinic in Virginia

The terms cold and flu often get used interchangeably although they are different illnesses. Their symptoms are very similar at first glance, including a stuffy or runny nose, sneezing, general fatigue, and body aches. However, the two conditions are caused by completely different viruses and over time with the illness, the symptoms will change to make it more clear which illness a person is suffering from. Flu symptoms tend to be more severe than those of a cold and can also cause additional health conditions such as ear and sinus infections, pneumonia, and sepsis. Your doctor will be able to determine which illness you are suffering from and provide direction on treatment if any. A common cold will go away on its own, typically within 10 days to 2 weeks, once it has run its course. Sufferers can manage symptoms as needed using over-the-counter cold medications, getting plenty of rest, and staying well hydrated. The flu on the other hand will typically start off with more severe symptoms that come on suddenly, over the course of a few hours, with symptoms clearing up over the course of a few weeks for most people.

Treatment for the flu will be dependent on your symptoms and any risk factors you may have. The flu will clear up on its own once it has run its course through your body. Sufferers can treat their flu symptoms, such as a cough or nasal congestion, using over-the-counter cold and flu medications. People should also ensure they are staying hydrated and getting plenty of rest to help their bodies fight off the bacteria causing the flu. If you are at risk for the development of complications from the flu, such as ear and sinus infections, bronchitis, or pneumonia, it is a good idea to check in with your doctor when you are sick so they can monitor for any early signs of one of these more serious illnesses that may require medication. Women who are pregnant, young children under 6, people over 65, and those with a weakened immune system have a high chance of having serious complications from the flu, as well as possibly not being able to take over-the-counter medications to manage their symptoms. Again, it is best to check in with your doctor. The Nova Patient Care operates by appointment or through an urgent care center for patients needing urgent medical attention, including treatment for the flu.

Cold and flu season happens every year as the weather starts to get cold and people are spending more time indoors. Prevention from cold and flu is very easy as it follows basic hygiene principles. Everyone can reduce their risk of catching a cold or the flu by following these basic steps for their overall health:

– Wash your hands frequently using soap and warm water, for at least 20 seconds.
– Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze using the crook of your elbow, not your hand.
– Stay home if you are feeling unwell or wear a clean face mask if going out is unavoidable.
– Avoid touching your face when you have been in contact with other people or surfaces that may be contaminated. Vice versa, don’t touch your face and then touch surfaces where germs could live.
– Avoid sharing items that could be contaminated such as utensils, cups, and personal items.
– Eat a well-balanced diet, exercise regularly, and try to keep your stress at a minimum.

The flu is a respiratory infection that is highly contagious and easily passed from a sick person to a healthy person. Transmission can happen through contact with a contaminated surface, as the bacteria are able to live a short time on some surfaces once a sick person has touched them. If a healthy person touches the contaminated surface and then touches their face, particularly their nose, mouth, or eyes, they can transmit the virus into their system. The most common form of transmission is through person-to-person contact, whether from a hug, handshake, sharing of food, or simply close proximity as the bacteria can travel through the air. Once a person has been exposed to the flu virus, they become contagious starting the day before symptoms appear and up to 7 days after their symptoms have developed. The most contagious days are the first three to four days following the start of their illness. At Nova Patient Care, our team can provide you with a proper diagnosis for your illness and ensure that you are monitoring yourself for any complications related to your illness.

Visit Nova Patient Care to receive the proper evaluation and appropriate treatment if you are experiencing symptoms of the flu or a cold. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We serve patients from Annandale VA, Arlington VA, Bethel VA, Dale City VA, Falls Church VA, Fort Hunt VA, Franconia VA, Huntington VA, Richmond Hwy Alexandria VA, Idylwood VA, Kingstowne Center Alexandria VA, Lake Barcroft VA, Mclean VA, Newington VA, Old Town Alexandria VA, Pentagon City Arlington VA, Seven Corners VA, Tysons VA, Woodbridge, VA and surrounding areas.