Fever

Fever, or pyrexia, is almost always a warning sign that your body is trying to fight off an infection. Our body elevates its temperature to combat the source of the infection, whether it’s bacterial or viral. Many physicians advise that if your temperature isn’t serious (above 100.4), it’s probably best to let your body manage its own temperature, because it’s likely been effective in neutralizing the invading bodies. However, if your fever climbs higher than 100.4, you should begin monitoring it and take an antipyretic, such as Tylenol.

Gastrointestinal Problems

Not all early illness symptoms happen in the head, throat and chest. Some illnesses can cause you to develop diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain or vomiting. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), these symptoms are more prevalent in children than adults. If you or your child begins developing these symptoms, it’s important to have electrolytes on hand, such as energy drinks or Pedialyte, to help prevent or manage dehydration, which can be a serious problem for young children.

Emergency Symptoms

Some illnesses like the flu are progressive, and symptoms tend to get worse before you heal. Even if your spouse or child is recovering from a mild illness, your body may not be in the same shape to fight it, and you may get a more serious reaction to the same illness. If you develop any of the following symptoms, you should seek emergency medical attention:

●     chest pain

●     difficulty breathing