Health Tip

Do You Have a Cold or the Flu?

       If you have ever had the flu, you probably didn’t mistake it for a cold. The fever, muscle aches, and chills of the flu are often distinctive; however, the common cold often has some flu-like symptoms. Here’s how you can tell the difference.

The Flu
       Three different types of viruses cause influenza (flu). These viruses appear every fall as the weather gets cold and usually last until spring. The flu is spread through virus particles that are coughed or sneezed into the air. If the germ takes hold, symptoms develop within 48 hours.

Common Cold
       More than 200 cold viruses are known to exist, which is why it is so easy to catch a cold and why symptoms can vary so much. Like influenza viruses, cold viruses can be spread through the air. You can also catch a cold through contact such as shaking hands or sharing a telephone with someone who has a cold.

Symptoms

Fever. With a cold, a fever is rare, but with the flu, a high fever (102-104 degrees) is characteristic and lasts three to four days.
Headache. A prominent headache usually accompanies the flu. A headache is rare with the common cold.
General Aches and Pains. You may have slight aches and pains when you have a cold; however, aches and pains are common with the flu and often severe.
Fatigue and Weakness. Fatigue and weakness can last two to three weeks with the flu, but fatigue is quite mild when you have a cold.
Stuffy Nose. A stuffy nose is common with a cold. Sometimes you will have a stuffy nose with the flu.
Sneezing. You may have some sneezing with the flu, but you will usually have it with a cold.
Sore Throat. When you have a cold, it is common to have a sore throat. When you have the flu, you may have a sore throat with it.
Chest Discomfort and Cough. With the flu, chest discomfort is common and can become severe. Chest discomfort is mild to moderate with a cold.

Complications
       Likely complications from the common cold include sinus congestion and an earache. Bronchitis and pneumonia are complications associated with the flu. The flu can also be life-threatening.

Treatment
       If you get a cold or the flu, you have to let it run its course. Drink lots of fluid and get plenty of rest. If you have a fever, take acetaminophen (Tylenol). To help control a runny nose or nasal congestion, try an antihistamine or a decongestant. Call your doctor if you have serious difficulty breathing or if any of your symptoms (nasal congestion and discharge of yellow, thick mucus; cough, sore throat, fever, or facial pain) last more than five days.

Prevention
       The best way to prevent the flu or lessen its effects is to get a flu shot. The best time to get the shot is before the end of November, before the flu season starts. Since flu strains change, you need to get a flu shot each year. However, the shot is not recommended for everyone so check with your doctor first. Sometimes it is difficult to avoid people with colds or the flu, but you can take steps to help prevent getting sick. Wash your hands frequently and keep them away from your face. Avoid sharing cups, telephones, etc., and clean work items such as telephones, computer mouse, etc., often. Eat a balanced diet and take nutrition supplements necessary. Get the proper amount of sleep and exercise regularly.