Is it the flu or a cold that is causing your body aches and cough? Colds and the flu are respiratory infections, but they are each derived from different viruses. Because the flu can cause more serious complications such as pneumonia, bacterial infections, and hospitalization, it’s very important to be able to differentiate between the two illnesses.
Flu and Cold Symptoms
While it can be difficult at times to differentiate between a cold and the flu, it’s important to keep in mind that the flu is more intense and severe than a cold. The flu’s relentless and sudden onset symptoms often include:
- A fever of 102-104℉ that lasts around three-to-four days
- Severe aches and pains
- Fatigue, weakness, and extreme exhaustion, lasting around one-to-two weeks
- Cough and sore throat
- Chills
- Runny nose
- Headache
A cold rarely displays harsh flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, or headache. The symptoms usually associated with a cold appear at a gradual pace and include:
- Runny nose and sneezing
- Red eyes
- Headaches and general body aches
- One-to-two week period of feeling sick
Self-Care for Aches and Coughing
There are no medications to cure the flu or a cold, though there are some over the counter drugs that can help in controlling fever and your overall body aches and cough.
Here are several self-care instructions for you to follow if you are experiencing a cold or the flu:
- Stay home and rest
- Stay hydrated
- If you smoke, stop
- Be patient
See a Medical Professional for Your Body Aches and Cough
It’s important to see a medical professional if you are experiencing:
- Increased coughing
- Difficulty breathing
- High fever
- Ear, facial, or chest pain
- Symptoms that persist after two weeks
Whether it’s the flu or a cold, FastMed is here to protect you from developing further complications and to get you quickly back to health!
Our licensed providers can help you and your loved ones with body aches and coughs, as well as preventive vaccines such as the flu shot. Contact us today, and find your local FastMed Urgent Care!
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Sources:
Everyday Health: https://www.everydayhealth.com/cold-flu/symptoms-of-colds-vs-flu.aspx
Cal Tech: https://healthcenter.caltech.edu/other/flu#difference
UWHealth: http://www.uwhealth.org/flu/know-the-difference-between-a-cold-and-the-flu