You wake up sneezing and coughing, your head and chest congested. “It’s the flu,” you surmise. After all, isn’t it flu season? You have been feeling bad for a few days now. Isn’t a cold simply the flu that has gotten worse? If not, then what is the difference between the cold and the flu, and what can you do about it? Bottom line: while the flu and colds both are caused by viruses and there are treated somewhat similarly, there are differences you need to know to ensure you are treating them correctly. Here’s what you need to know about the differences between a cold and the flu.
Symptoms of a Cold
Most often starting out as a runny nose, a cold results in sneezing, cough, congestion, and low-grade fevers. The nose may present watery secretions that eventually get thicker and darker. Sneezing may occur and are accompanied by head and body aches. Colds are transmissible all year round, although they appear more frequently in late-winter and early spring. A cold typically lasts a week to ten days. While an annoyance, it is still possible to function (albeit uncomfortably) while you have cold.
Symptoms of the Flu
While sharing most of the same symptoms as the cold, the flu usually starts out as a sore throat and is marked by a very rapid onset of all symptoms that can last up to a week. Symptoms typically include high fever, fatigue, headaches and sore and achy muscle. Those who have the flu often report it is hard to get out of bed; they suffer from alternating chills and warm flashes, sweats and dizziness, making it hard to function in any capacity.
Treatments
Although certain medications like ibuprophen or cough medicine can help reduce symptoms or make you feel more comfortable, there are no medical treatments for a person with either a cold or the flu. Because they are viral conditions, neither the flu nor a cold responds to antibiotics. (This is not the case however, if either develop into more serious conditions like pneumonia, bronchitis, or other bacterial infections – your doctor may prescribe antibiotics for that.) Rest and plenty of fluids are most beneficial for both cold and flu, unless the person has a weakened immune system which would mean that treatment would be more intense.
Prevention
The best way to avoid the flu is to get a flu shot and to observe proper hygiene habits. Flu shots protect not only the person who receives it, but also those with vulnerable immune systems, to include the elderly and those with chronic illnesses. Maintaining proper hygiene habits – especially washing your hands and avoiding close quarters with someone who is ill – is also a practical way to avoid cold or flu.
More Serious Symptoms
A persistent fever could be a sign of a bacterial infection being masked by either cold or flu. Increased pain from swallowing may possibly be strep throat – a simple throat culture can determine this. If a cough worsens or lasts a couple days or longer, it may be a bronchial infection such as bronchitis, which could require an antibiotic and/or steroids. Congestion from a cold or flu may block the sinus cavities, resulting in sinusitis that usually will cause pain and pressure around the eyes, face and teeth. If you or your child is having trouble breathing, is vomiting, or has a spiked fever, seek emergency medical care immediately.
Top Quality Medical Care In Eatonton, GA
If you are looking for top-tier, compassionate medical care in Eatonton GA, look no further than Lake Oconee Primary & Urgent Care Center. Our physicians have years of experience treating the whole family. Don’t let a cold or flu get you down. Call (706) 484-0884 today and be sure your family has the best care options available!
