“It must be some virus that’s going around.” How many times have you heard this phrase? But what does it mean to have a virus, and how can you recognize it before it spreads to you (or treat it properly once it does)?
Schaumburg Immediate Care offers many treatments for the myriad upper respiratory infections caused by viruses. We’re happy to help you recognize the symptoms of a virus and treat and manage one at home or with the help of a clinician.
A virus is an infectious microbe that gets inside a living host and replicates. When the virus does this, our bodies recognize that something foreign has gotten inside and is trying to harm us. The body responds by creating antibodies to fight the virus. The antibodies also cause the symptoms we associate with the virus.
Several common viruses can cause upper respiratory infections, including the flu, the common cold, RSV, and COVID-19. Sometimes, it can be hard to tell the difference between them, but more on that later.
Viruses are numerous and quickly spread. The best way to avoid getting or spreading a virus is to wash your hands often, cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, disinfect surfaces in your home, get vaccinated, and take or eat immunity-boosting medicine or foods.
The symptoms associated with most viruses are relatively similar. Sore throat, coughing, congestion, sneezing, fever, and chills are common. These symptoms result from your body’s immune response when fighting off the virus. If you have these symptoms for a few days, it’s usually a good bet that you’re dealing with a virus.
However, it can be hard to determine which virus, and it can take time. Sometimes, the symptoms can tell you. For example, if you have sudden and severe symptoms, it might be the flu rather than a cold. But it’s best to have a medical professional evaluate you to be sure.
Unfortunately, viruses aren’t the only possible culprits when we experience these symptoms. Bacterial infections — like strep throat — can also cause many of the same symptoms. However, bacterial infections, not viruses, can be treated with antibiotics. This is another good reason to see a doctor when you feel sick.
In some cases, staying home and resting up is all you need to do to treat your symptoms. Make sure to sleep, eat, and drink plenty of fluids. Once you’ve been without a fever for 24 hours and notice your symptoms are beginning to subside, you can usually return to normal activities.
However, this isn’t always the case. You may have a more severe viral infection — such as that caused by the COVID-19 virus — and more rest may be necessary. You will also need to see your doctor if you notice severe symptoms like a high fever or confusion.
Finally, if you notice that your illness isn’t improving after a week, you’re probably dealing with a bacterial infection, for which you’ll need antibiotics. Make sure you monitor your recovery and get help if it seems to be taking too long, getting worse, or creating serious symptoms.
Depending on your situation, it’s important to consider if a visit to your local immediate care clinic is necessary. In some cases, it can help you get better faster, allow you to determine exactly which viral infection you’re dealing with, and get any necessary treatments you may not have at home.
To make an appointment at our clinic in Schaumburg, IL, call us at 847-250-1700 or visit us online.
