Flu Symptoms: Common Signs to Watch For | updoc

October 25, 2022

Dr Karina Palad, MD
Reviewed by Dr. Christopher Sim
Written by updoc's Editorial Team
Flu Symptoms: Common Signs to Watch For | updoc

Full disclaimer: I am not a lawyer and this is not legal advice. You should also always see a Practitioner about any health needs. Should you be in a sticky situation, you should always seek out advice from a legal or health professional, depending on your needs.

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Yeah, we’ve done old reliable Dr. Google and searched for our flu symptoms, too. We’re here to give you the actual lowdown.

Unlike stomach flu-type viruses that can cause diarrhea and vomiting, influenza (flu) is an infection of the nose, throat, lungs, and a big downer on your energy levels.

Usually you get better on your own when you have the flu - with enough rest, which you can get through sick leave, reduction of stress, plenty of water and healthy foods. There are some people who are at risk of flu complications, though. These people include:

  • Kids under 2
  • Adults over the age of 65
  • People who live in nursing homes
  • People who are pregnant
  • Immunocompromised people
  • People with chronic illnesses
  • People with a body mass index (BMI) higher than 40

A good deterrent to severe complications from the flu is the influenza vaccine. Although it isn’t 100% effective (neither are condoms, mate), it’s a great protector from more serious complications above and beyond a few days stuck in bed.

Are my symptoms the flu?

It would be easy to see someone mistaking a simple cold for the flu, as other factors could be impacting you separate to your illness – lack of sleep, stress from work, or other factors.

However, the difference is usually that the flu suddenly comes on out of nowhere, while colds usually take time. Additionally, the flu usually feels much, much worse than a simple cold, and it’s typically much less likely that you’ll be able to muster the energy to push through having the flu.

All of this aside, common symptoms of the flu often include:

  • Fever
  • Muscle aches
  • Chills and cold sweats
  • Headache
  • Dry, persistent cough
  • Shortness of breath
  • Tiredness and weakness
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Sore throat
  • Eye pain
  • Vomiting and diarrhea, but this is more common in children than adults

How to fix the flu?

If any of your symptoms are serious and seem life threatening, you should always seek immediate medical attention. Some of these symptoms can include:

  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Chest pain
  • Ongoing dizziness
  • Seizures
  • Worsening of existing medical conditions

However, most people who get the flu can treat themselves at home and often don't need to see a health care provider in-person. You can help lessen the symptoms of the flu with:

  • Antiviral medication
  • Rest & sleep - taking a day or two off work can help prevent the spread too
  • Avoiding physical activities & travel
  • Replenishing liquids, mainly water
  • Eating plenty of health foods

How can I get rest when I have the flu?

It’s easy to get an assessment from a Partner Doctor who, if suitable, can provide you a medical certificate for a day from work when you have the flu through updoc.

Being an Aussie owned & run company, updoc understands the importance of helping our fellow Aussies out in times of need. 

We also understand what it’s like to be in the queue at a doctor’s office just to get a note to confirm things you already knew about your health, just so you can get paid on what should be your day off. Being able to speak with real Partner Practitioners online who, if suitable, can provide medical certificates, helps Australians get the rest they need when they need it so they can get back on their feet and back to contributing in no time.

If you need to speak with a Partner Practitioner who, if suitable, can provide an online medical certificate, it’s a simple process through updoc:

📱 Head here

📝 Fill in a short form — it asks for key details about your issue

👨⚕️ Consult with your own Partner Doctor — they’ll take the medical information you provide and assess your needs within 24-48 hours

📥 If they find it to be suitable, your Partner Doctor will issue you a medical certificate to your inbox — you’ll receive an SMS and an e-mail with your medical certificate ready to download

It’s important to note that the independent Partner Doctor will read your health notes and make an informed decision on whether to provide you with a medical certificate or not. The Practitioner does not work for us, and we’ve created updoc to facilitate a convenient, ongoing connection with them.