Today's Most Popular Video
Apr 29, 2009 11:02 pm US/Central
Good Question: Swine Flu: When Do I See A Doctor?
(WCCO)
There's been no outbreak of swine flu in Minnesota, yet hospitals and clinics are already seeing many patients concerned they have the virus. How do you know when you should see the doctor?
"They say, 'Do I have the flu? Do I need to be tested? Do I need medication?'" according to Dr. Dave Moen, with Fairview Health Services.
Moen said that because influenza comes with multiple symptoms, "It is not always easy to tell for the general public."
The hallmark symptoms of the flu include a runny nose, a cough and a sore throat. But that's not it. People with the flu also have a fever and sore muscles.
Another hallmark sign, according to Moen: "If you're short of breath or if you have a severe sore throat and having trouble swallowing fluids."
A nagging cough or runny nose is not typically an indicator that you have a viral infection like the flu, Moen explained. Although flu starts with a runny nose, it typically escalates from that within 24 hours.
The medical system is prepared to deal with an outbreak of influenza, swine or otherwise, said Moen, but it is not prepared to deal with an outbreak of people who have runny noses.
"Going to see someone to talk about a runny nose is not helping us be more prepared, it may actually be standing in the way of us doing what we need to do," he explained.
Also, a hospital emergency room or a clinic's waiting room is a place full of people with various illnesses.
"If you're not severely ill, you do have the potential to be exposed to people who are. So it's wise to be intelligent about deciding whether you go in or not," said Moen.
If you're worried, Moen suggested picking up the phone and calling your medical provider. You can describe your symptoms from the comfort of your home and a nurse or doctor can tell you if you should come and visit.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
Man Recalls Night Friend Was Shot By Cop
Click to enlarge
Stumble It!
Reporting
