YUMA, Arizona. This year, the flu has hit the U.S. particularly hard. According to Forbes , hospitalizations for the flu have been on the rise, recently, with the Centers for Disease Control calling this year’s flu season the worst in years. While the flu can be potentially deadly, the real risks may have less to do with the flu itself, but rather, with the steps we take to treat it. According to USA Today , as many as 7 in 10 Americans may turn to over the counter flu remedies. Many turn to these remedies before they go to the doctor.

Yet, when individuals take over the counter flu medicines, they may not be aware that these medicines come with certain risks. Some of the medicines can cause drowsiness. If you take these medications and then get behind the wheel, you could be putting yourself and others at risk. To make matters worse, individuals looking to feel better sometimes mix medicines. This can make the effects of these medicines even stronger. In essence, people might be driving to work in the morning drugged and tired, putting everyone at risk.

Individuals may also let their guard down when it comes to taking over the counter medicines. However, before you take anything and get behind the wheel, be sure to read the label first. If you are on certain types of medications, over the counter flu medicines could have potentially dangerous interactions.

Overdose is another risk. Taking too much over the counter flu medicine can lead to liver failure. Acetaminophen can damage the liver if patients overdose. To make matters worse, the symptoms of acetaminophen overdose (nausea, vomiting, and sickness) can mimic the symptoms of the flu. People may take more of the drug to treat worsening symptoms, not aware that the drug is causing the problem.

So, what can you do to stay safe this cold and flu season? First of all, consider treating only your symptoms and limit yourself to the recommended dose.

Finally, people often take medicines in an attempt to crawl into work when they are feeling sick. Instead of taking flu medicines and driving to work, take a sick day. If you are sick for more than a couple of days, consider working remotely. If you must go into work, consider asking a friend or partner to drive you, or carpool to work. If that isn’t an option, take an Uber or a cab. Keep yourself and others on the road safe this flu season. Even if the medicine isn’t affecting your driving, being sick while driving can affect your reaction time and safety.

Schneider & Onofry, P.C. are personal injury lawyers in Yuma, Arizona who work closely with car accident victims. We see firsthand how distracted and fatigued driving can impact the lives not only of drivers, but of others involved in crashes. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a car accident in Yuma, Arizona, consider speaking to the car accident lawyers at https://www.soarizonalaw.com/ today.