For most people, the flu causes fever, chills, muscle pain, headaches, and respiratory infections. It can also cause gastrointestinal disturbances and prolonged fatigue. While these are the most common signs and symptoms of the influenza virus, you may experience unusual symptoms that may prompt you to visit an urgent care center. If you have the flu and experience any of the following, see a physician so that other, more serious, conditions can be ruled out. 

Tachycardia

The flu can cause cardiovascular symptoms such as tachycardia. Also known as a fast heart rate, tachycardia can also cause chest discomfort, shortness of breath and anxiety. When tachycardia occurs in those with the flu, it is usually because of a fever.

When you have a fever, your metabolic rate rises, and because of this, your heart rate may also increase. Also, when your body is trying to fight off an infection, your heart has to work harder and beat faster.

At the urgent care center, the physician will take an electrocardiogram, or EKG, to rule out heart problems, however, if your tachycardia occurs only when you have a fever or the flu, it is probably a benign symptom. Your fast heart rate will resolve once your infection has cleared. 

Numbness And Tingling Sensations 

Neurological symptoms such as numbness and tingling sensations are not uncommon during a bout of the flu. They can occur in your face, arms, torso, and legs, and you may also notice burning or prickling sensations, or feel as though someone is splashing cold water on your extremities.

The doctor at the urgent care center will perform a comprehensive neurological examination including a check of your cranial nerves. If your neurological exam is normal, the physician may assume that your symptoms are related to your infection. If your symptoms persist after your infection has cleared, the urgent care physician may recommend that you make an appointment with a neurologist for additional diagnostic testing. 

If you have the flu and develop any of the above symptoms, visit an urgent care clinic or see your family physician. These symptoms can mimic other medical conditions so it is important that you get checked out as soon as possible. Also, getting vaccinated against the flu can reduce your risk of getting influenza. If you get the flu despite getting the vaccination, chances are that you will have a milder case of a shorter duration.