Common Cold or Flu?

Cold symptoms associated with the common viral cold often will consist of  sore throat, runny nose, congestion, nonproductive cough, mild fatigue and rarely fever or headache.  It usually lasts 2-10 days.  Treatment consists of  tylenol or motrin for sore throat and fever.  Over the counter antihistamines/decongestants and cough syrups or cough drops will help with runny nose, congestion and cough.

The respiratory flu, or Influenza, often starts with sudden onset of sore throat, fevers, chills, cough, muscle aches and pains, fatigue, weakness, and headache.  It usually lasts 7-14 days.  Treatment includes annual vaccine for prevention and antiviral medication to shorten the course of disease if started within 24-48 of onset of symptoms.  Symptomatic treatment consists of Tylenol or Motrin for sore throat, fever, and muscle aches, as well as, over the counter antihistamines/decongestants and cough syrups or cough drops for runny nose, congestion and cough.  Complications of flu may include bronchitis, pneumonia or sinusitis which can be severe or life threatening.

Contact your physician should you have any underlying medical diseases or questions concerning  your illness.