Your primary care physician is your recipe for health and wellness this flu and pneumonia season

Although each flu (influenza) season is different, approximately 10 to 20 percent of the population will get the flu each year. Some of the complications caused by flu include bacterial pneumonia, dehydration and worsening of chronic medical conditions such as congestive heart failure, asthma or diabetes. Children may get sinus problems and ear infection.

Just one vaccination every five years can prevent pneumonia and its complications, which include blood infections, respiratory failure, and even death. The pneumonia vaccine is recommended for all adults older than 65, people with chronic medical conditions, or people with weakened immune systems. It is not recommended for children under 2 years old.

When to see a doctor

Many people often ask when it is necessary to see a doctor. The following are some general guidelines for deciding when to call the doctor:

Persistent fever – Although a fever accompanies the flu, it should decline by the third day. If a fever remains high, it could be a sign that you may have a more serious infection.

Difficulty breathing/chest pain – The flu should not cause shortness of breath or chest pain. Therefore, these could be symptoms of a more serious problem such as heart disease, asthma, pneumonia, or others.

Vomiting – An inability to keep fluids down could result in dehydration. If you’re unable to stay hydrated you may need to be hospitalized to receive fluids intravenously.

Persistent coughing – If you have a cough for more 2 to 3 weeks, your doctor may want to examine you to ensure that you don’t have a secondary infection that would require antibiotics.

Persistent headaches and congestion – A stuffy nose is typical with the flu, but if symptoms persist it may be a sign of a sinus infection where antibiotics are necessary for treatment.

>> Click here to learn more about the flu

>> Click here to learn more about pneumonia