When do I go to the doctor?
Symptoms of the flu include:
- Fever of sudden onset (101°F - 104°F)
- Body aches
- Headache
- Nasal congestion, sore throat, and/or cough
- Weakness, fatigue, and exhaustion, sometimes even after the fever is gone
- Loss of appetite
Adults* should follow these guidelines to determine what action to take:
Seek immediate medical attention if:
- You have significant problems breathing and/or bluish discoloration to the skin.
- Your fever is higher than 104°F (oral temperature) and does not lower with self-care measures.
- You have a fever that is accompanied by a seizure.
Call your physician or, if you are a student, go to M.S. Shook Student Health Service if:
- You suspect you have the flu and you are at high risk of complications.
- You suspect you have the flu and you are around a lot of people; you may want to talk to a physician about taking an antiviral medication.
- You are having trouble breathing.
- Your symptoms last or worsen for more than five days.
- Your fever shows no improvement in 72 hours or has lasted more than 5 days.
- If you have already seen a physician and you do not feel you are improving after 3 to 5 days.
- Your cough is productive or your neck becomes stiff.
*The above guidelines apply only for adults.
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Page content reviewed: 01/30/20 fwg
