The flu is a very common viral infection. It is highly contagious, and flu season tends to last from early fall into the early spring months. The flu is a respiratory illness, meaning that it primarily affects your lungs, throat and sinuses. The flu can lead to severe symptoms, including shortness of breath, which may require medical care. Keep reading to learn more about flu-induced shortness of breath and when to seek medical care for related symptoms.
At AFC Urgent Care West Long Branch, our walk-in clinic is equipped to provide rapid care for cases of the flu. We have rapid flu tests available on a walk-in basis, and our board-certified medical providers can help you effectively treat your symptoms. Walk into the clinic for same-day care today, or save your spot online in advance using the button below. We’re open 7 days a week in West Long Branch, New Jersey.
Is it Normal to Experience Breathing Problems With the Flu?
The flu can cause a variety of respiratory symptoms, as well as symptoms such as a fever, body aches and chills, severe fatigue, and nasal congestion. Many patients with the flu develop a cough, and inflammation within the lungs can lead to more severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, or pain while breathing. Flu-related breathing trouble often is described as tightness or pressure in the chest. Feeling like you need to work harder to breathe, feel constantly winded, or wheezing when you take a deep breath are also potential complications associated with a case of the flu. While these symptoms are not uncommon, it is important to take them seriously and understand when your symptoms may require medical care.
When Flu-Induced Shortness of Breath Requires Medical Care
Shortness of breath can occur when your lungs are inflamed, or congested with mucus. It is a common symptom associated with the flu, however, you should not ignore symptoms such as difficulty breathing. If you are experiencing labored breathing, even when sitting or laying down, or severe wheezing, you should seek urgent medical care. These symptoms indicate severe illness, and can also be a sign that you’re developing a secondary infection like pneumonia. You may need breathing treatments or an inhaler to help open up your airway and clear up inflammation in the lungs.
Get Flu Symptom Diagnosis & Treatment in West Long Branch, New Jersey, at AFC Urgent Care West Long Branch
The flu is a serious illness. If you suspect that you have the flu, seeking medical care immediately is essential. If given within 48 hours of symptom onset, antiviral medications can help clear up a case of the flu very quickly. At AFC Urgent Care West Long Branch, we provide same-day care for flu-like symptoms on a walk-in basis at our clinic in West Long Branch, New Jersey.
Our clinic makes it easy to receive prompt symptom evaluation and treatment when it’s convenient for your schedule, with no need to schedule an appointment in advance. We accept most medical insurance plans, and have affordable rates for patients without insurance coverage. Walk in today for rapid same-day care. To learn more about the conditions we treat, give us a call at (732) 222-8000.
