Cold versus Flu

How can you tell if you have a cold of the flu? Well, Dr. Carm is going to help you find out!

The cold and flu have many similar symptoms and can be confusing to tell which one is which. Let’s see how much you know already.  Below are some symptoms relating to the common cold and influenza.  Some symptoms overlap both, but try to match up the symptom most commonly associated with the illness.

 

Congestion                         Cough  

Fever                                    Headache
Low-grade Fever              Muscle-aches
Runny Nose                       Sore Throat

 

Cold	Flu

 

All set? Double check your answers…. *waits patiently*

Is this your final answer? Okay…

Let’s see how you did….

 

Cold

Most common symptoms of the cold include: Sore throats, runny noses, low-grade fevers, and congestions

Flu

Most common symptoms of the flu include:  coughs, fevers, muscle-aches, and headaches

With both of these illnesses, you usually do not need to see the doctor.  Rest, liquids, and some over the counter drugs can help—as well as some “homemade” treatments.  If your symptoms do not go away (or improve) within about a week, you might have a bacterial infection.  In which case, you will need an antibiotic prescribed by your physician.

You ask: Dr. Carm can you write me a prescription?

Well, Dr. Carm can write you one, but it might not be accepted when you take it to the pharmacist (or chemist).

 

Some tips:

Remember to read the ingredients (and instructions) if you are taking over the counter drugs.  For instance, some medication includes a pain reliever in addition to congestion relief.

If you are taking prescription medication, ask your doctor about any drug interactions before taking any over the counter medications.

For people who have heart disease, Dr. Carm suggests that you stay away from decongestants (unless your doctor tells you otherwise).  Decongestants can increase your blood pressure.  You can try taking an antihistamine instead.

Remember to wash your hands and practice other sanity methods when you are sick.

Rest as you are able, and try to stay away from young children and the elderly.

And finally….Don’t be a baby! We all get sick.  Yes, you are miserable, but it does go away.

 

Related Posts:

I’m Sick: To Go or Not to Go to the Doctors 
Calling Off of Work (short story)  
Sneeze Record  

Additional Readings:

Cold, Flu, & Cough Health Center  

Cold Versus Flu  

Is It a Cold or the Flu?