The Flu and Colds: Tips on Feeling Better

How can I tell if I have a cold or the flu?

A cold and the flu cause many of the same symptoms. But a cold is generally mild, while the flu tends to be more severe.

A cold often starts with feeling tired, sneezing, coughing and having a runny nose. You may not have a fever or you may run a low fever--just 1 or 2 degrees higher than usual. You may also have muscle aches, a scratchy or sore throat, watery eyes and a headache.

The flu starts suddenly and hits hard. You'll probably feel weak and tired, and have a fever, dry cough, a runny nose, chills, muscle aches, severe headache, eye pain and a sore throat. It usually takes longer to get over the flu than a cold.

What causes colds and the flu?

Viruses. Over 100 different viruses can cause colds. There aren't as many viruses that cause the flu. That's why there's a shot for the flu and not for colds.

What can I do to feel better?

	Ways to treat your cold/flu symptoms Stay home and rest, especially while you have a fever. Stop smoking and avoid secondhand smoke, which can make cold symptoms worse. Drink plenty of fluids like water, fruit juices and clear soups. Fluids help loosen mucus. Fluids are also important if you have a fever because fever can dry up your body's fluids, which can lead to dehydration. Don't drink alcohol. Gargle with warm salt water a few times a day to relieve a sore throat. Throat sprays or lozenges may also help relieve the pain. Use saline (salt water) nose drops to help loosen mucus and moisten the tender skin in your nose.

Should I take medicine for a cold or the flu?

Tamiflu or other antivirals may help can cure the flu. Also medicines can help relieve some of your cold or flu symptoms. Check with your healthcare provider before giving any medicine to children.

	Before taking any medication please read labels carefully. If you have questions, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. Please be careful that you check with your provider or pharmicist about medication interactions.

 

Should I visit my health care provider?

If you have any of the symptoms in the box below, visiting your healthcare provider is recommended.

	Emergency Cold/Flu Symptoms: In children: High (above 100 F) or prolonged fever A cold that lasts for more than 7days Trouble breathing, fast breathing or wheezing Bluish skin color Earache or drainage from the ear Changes in mental state (such as not waking up, irritability or seizures) Flu-like symptoms that improve, but return with a fever and a worse cough Worsening of chronic medical condition (such as diabetes or heart disease) In adults: High (above 102 F) or prolonged fever A cold that lasts for more than 10 days Trouble breathing or shortness of breath Pain or pressure in the chest Fainting or feeling like you are about to faint Confusion or disorientation Severe or persistent vomiting Severe pain in your face or forehead Hoarseness, sore throat or a cough that won't go away

More Information

For more information talk to your healthcare provider or visit familydoctor.org.

This handout provides a general overview on this topic and may not apply to everyone. Information adapted from familydoctor.org.  To find out if this handout applies to you and to get more information on this subject, talk to your healthcare provider.

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Steve Samudrala,MD	DrSam@AFDclinics.com
Allison Simon, FNP	Allison@AFDclinics.com
Maryellen Greene, PA	MaryE@AFDclinics.com
Heather Stanfield, FNP	Heather@AFDclinics.com
Cary Hatcher, FNP	Cary@AFDclinics.com
Angela Kelley, PA	Angela@AFDclinics.com
Gina Duke, FNP	Gina@AFDclinics.com
Anitha Dhar, MD	Anitha@AFDclinics.com

Our Get Well Providers

Elaine Dauwalder, FNP	Elaine@AFDclinics.com
Autumn Alexander, FNP	Autumn@AFDclinics.com