The flu has made its grand entry this year, sending many normally healthy individuals into misery. So much misery that many are heading to local emergency rooms, doctor offices, or clinics for treatment. But according to the Pennsylvania Medical Society (PAMED) and the Pennsylvania Chapter of the American College of Emergency Physicians (PaACEP), a trip to the ER or clinic may not always be necessary. “For many flu victims, staying at home, drinking fluids, and taking acetaminophen is all that they need,” says Ralph J. Riviello, MD, MD, FACEP, president of PaACEP. “But there will be exceptions, and those people should seek immediate assistance.” For example, Dr. Riviello says certain symptoms will trigger a reason to seek immediate care from a physician. Specifically, physicians will be concerned if you have any signs of pneumonia, low oxygen levels, or severe dehydration. “An adult with difficulty breathing, chest or abdomen pain, dizziness, confusion, or severe vomiting nee...