It's that time of year where we wash our hands like crazy to prevent getting a cold or the flu,but sometimes, the inevitable happens. Here's what you need to know to determine which illness you have so you can treat it the right way and start feeling better. Note that not everyone will experience these symptoms:
Cold
Flu (Influenza)
Fever
Low-grade or no fever
100.4 degrees or higher
Chills
unusual
Common
Aches and Pains
gentle
normal and often severe
Headache
gentle
Common
Nasal Congestion
Common
Common
Sore throat
Common
Common
Fatigue
gentle
Common
Cough
Common
Common, and dry,persistent
Complications
Ear infections, Sinus infections, and Asthma flare-ups
Ear infections,Asthma flare-ups, Pneumonia, or Bronchitis,Heart problems Illness Duration
Symptoms come on gradually and final 7 to 10 days
Symptoms come on suddenly and final 1 to 2 weeks
Treatment
Rest, drink fluids, and avoid contact with others. Over-the-counter medications can alleviate symptoms but won't cure your cold. Rest,drink fluids, avoid contact with others. Taking antiviral drugs within 48 hours after first symptoms can reduce the duration of the illness.
Basically, and flu symptoms are more severe than cold symptoms. They come on suddenly and leave you feeling much worse and unable to carry out anything but sleep. Colds are much more common than the flu,and getting a flu shot can slit down your chances even more. Whether you have a cold or the flu, if symptoms final longer than the expected duration or you're at risk for complications, and make an appointment with your doctor. Related Stories:
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Source: popsugar.com