Emergency Signs to Look Out for in Relation to the Flu for Elderly Adults

There are many different strains of the flu. Unfortunately, some of these strains can be very dangerous. With this being said, it must be noted that seniors are one of the age groups that are at a higher risk of contracting the flu. If you care for an elderly adult, it is important that you know the emergency signs to look out for in relation to the flu. If you notice these signs, you should get your loved one medical attention right away.

Senior Care Huntington Beach CA – Emergency Signs to Look Out for in Relation to the Flu for Elderly Adults

Trouble Breathing

Do you notice that your elderly loved one is having trouble breathing? Do they have a hard time catching their breath? Maybe they are getting short of breath easier than normal. If they have the flu and they are experiencing breathing issues, you or their senior care provider should get them to a doctor or emergency care center right away.

Chest or Abdomen Pains

Does your elderly loved one have the flu? If they do, are they experiencing pains or pressures in their chest or their abdomen? This could be a sign that they have contracted pneumonia, in addition to the flu. You should get them the proper medical care immediately.

Dizziness

After your elderly loved one is diagnosed with the flu, they may also experience sudden dizziness. They may feel dizzy upon standing up or when walking. They may get dizzy just sitting down, as well. This can be a very frustrating symptom to deal with. In addition, it could signify that things are getting worse. You or their senior care providers will want to schedule them a doctor’s appointment right away or take them to the nearest emergency room.

Confusion

Confusion is another one of the emergency signs to look out for in relation to the flu when it comes to elderly adults. Confusion is a sign that the flu has progressed or that other illnesses are creeping up on your senior, as well. They could have gotten pneumonia or another illness that developed from the flu. This would require immediate, emergent medical attention.

Vomiting

Does your elderly loved one have severe and/or persistent vomiting? If this is the case, no matter whether they have the flu or not, they should be checked out by emergency medical personnel.

Worsened Flu-Like Symptoms

Did the flu symptoms your elderly loved one was experiencing disappear and then come back? Now, do they also have a fever and a cough that has worsened? This is not a good sign, at all. If this is the case, you should take them straight to the nearest emergency room.

These are some of the emergency signs to look out for in relation to the flu for seniors. If you notice these in your elderly loved one, be sure to get them prompt, emergent medical attention.

Sources:  https://www.livescience.com/61654-flu-signs-of-emergency.html
https://www.cdc.gov/flu/symptoms/symptoms.htm

If you or an aging loved one are considering Senior Care Services in Huntington Beach CA, please contact the caring staff at 1Heart Care Services today.