Flu – Covid – Strep

Flu-Like Symptoms Q & A

What are flu-like symptoms?

Flu-like symptoms refer to a group of common symptoms that may occur with several different infections. These symptoms may include:

• Fever or chills
• Body aches and fatigue
• Coughing
• Sore throat
• Headache
• Nasal congestion or runny nose
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea or upset stomach
• Loss of taste or smell (commonly seen with COVID-19)

Since many different illnesses can present with similar symptoms, it’s important to receive a proper evaluation to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.

What conditions cause flu-like symptoms?

Several common infections can cause flu-like symptoms, including:

• Common Cold: Caused by viruses such as rhinovirus, leading to mild symptoms like congestion, runny nose, and sore throat.
• Influenza (Flu): Often causes more severe symptoms like high fever, muscle aches, fatigue, and cough.
• COVID-19: Can cause a wide range of flu-like symptoms, including fever, cough, loss of taste or smell, and fatigue. COVID-19 can sometimes lead to more serious respiratory complications.
• Strep Throat: A bacterial infection causing sore throat, fever, and swollen glands. Strep often requires antibiotic treatment.
• Other respiratory infections: Including RSV, bronchitis, or sinus infections, which can also cause overlapping symptoms.

Because these conditions share similar symptoms, a medical evaluation can help determine the right diagnosis and treatment plan.

When should I see a doctor for flu-like symptoms?

It’s important to seek medical care if you or your child experience any of the following:

• High fever lasting more than 3-5 days
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Severe sore throat or ear pain
• Persistent vomiting or dehydration
• Extreme fatigue or weakness
• Chest pain
• Underlying chronic health conditions that increase your risk of complications
• Close contact with someone who tested positive for flu, COVID-19, or strep

At Fairmont Family Practice, we offer same-day appointments, in-office testing, and telehealth visits when appropriate to diagnose and treat flu-like illnesses quickly and safely.

How are flu-like illnesses diagnosed?

Our providers will carefully evaluate your symptoms, medical history, and exposure risks. We may perform:

• Rapid flu testing
• COVID-19 testing
• Rapid strep testing
• Physical examination
• Additional lab tests if needed

Early and accurate diagnosis allows us to start the most effective treatment promptly, whether it's antiviral medication, antibiotics, or supportive care.

How are flu-like illnesses treated?

Treatment depends on the specific cause of your symptoms:

• Common Cold: Rest, fluids, over-the-counter medications, humidifiers, and symptom relief while the virus runs its course.
• Influenza: Antiviral medications like Tamiflu may reduce symptom duration if started early.
• COVID-19: Supportive care; in some cases, antiviral or monoclonal antibody treatments for high-risk patients.
• Strep Throat: Antibiotics to clear the bacterial infection and reduce complications.

Our team at Fairmont Family Practice ensures you receive personalized, evidence-based care while monitoring your recovery.

If you’re experiencing flu-like symptoms or want to be evaluated for the flu, COVID-19, strep, or other respiratory illnesses, call Fairmont Family Practice in La Porte, Texas, or schedule an appointment online today. Fast, expert care is available to help you feel better and protect your health.