How to manage worsening flu in a 62-year-old?

Question

Hi doctor,

My uncle is 62 years of age and was diagnosed with an apparently ordinary flu that presented itself as fever, body pains, a sore throat, and fatigue around five days ago.

Unfortunately, the opposite occurs because not only does his health deteriorate, but he still continues to suffer from fatigue, breathing problems, and high fever. Additionally, he is a diabetic and has some mild hypertension, which makes my family even more worried about his possible complications.

Yesterday, he had slightly decreased levels of oxygen, and now, even during short walks, he feels fatigued.

What would be the best way for a 62-year-old man to handle worsening flu symptoms and what are the symptoms indicating that the infection is starting to become dangerous or lead to such complications as pneumonia?

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern and will definitely help you with it.

I am sorry your uncle is having such difficulties. In an individual aged 62 years, particularly one suffering from diabetes and hypertension, the presence of flu symptoms that do not improve but get worse day by day is worrying as far as possible complications like viral pneumonia, secondary bacterial pneumonia, dehydration, low oxygen levels, and stress to the heart and lungs are concerned.

Difficulty breathing, high fever, significant fatigue, exhaustion from minimal exertion, and low oxygen levels are very important signs that need attention.

He should be evaluated urgently by a doctor or emergency service today because older adults and people with chronic conditions can deteriorate quickly from influenza and may need oxygen monitoring, chest imaging, antiviral treatment such as Oseltamivir, fluids, or treatment for pneumonia if present.

Dangerous signs include oxygen saturation consistently below about 92 percent, difficulty breathing, chest pain, bluish lips, confusion, inability to stay awake, severe dehydration, inability to eat or drink, worsening cough with thick or bloody mucus, or fever that remains high despite medication.

Until he is seen, encourage rest; fluids, monitoring of blood sugar closely because infections can destabilize diabetes; and use of fever reducers if medically appropriate and already tolerated. If his breathing worsens, oxygen drops further, or he becomes confused or very drowsy, seek emergency care immediately rather than waiting for a clinic appointment.

I hope this is clear, and if you have any questions, do not hesitate to ask.

Do follow up whenever needed.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.