Is it a cold or the flu?
The common cold and the flu (or influenza) are both highly contagious viruses. Although the flu often causes symptoms making you feel worse than those caused by the common cold, it can sometimes be difficult to tell the difference between the two. Use the symptom checklist below to help guide your decision.
Although there is no guaranteed way to keep anyone from getting colds or the flu, these tips will help stop germs from spreading:
- Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.
- Cough and sneeze into your elbow or a tissue.
- Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth.
- Wash doorknobs, toilet handles, countertops and toys with a disinfecting wipe or a cloth with soap and hot water regularly.
- Stay home from work if you have a fever and/or other bothersome cold or flu symptoms. You should stay home at least 24 hours after your fever is gone without the aid of fever-reducing medicines.
- Get immunized for flu. Flu season is considered to run October through May in the U.S. Getting immunized before the season arrives provides the best protection.
Because the common cold and flu are caused by viruses, not bacteria, antibiotics will not relieve symptoms or help the cold or flu clear up any faster. Although most cold or flu symptoms subside after a week or two, here are some ways to help relieve symptoms:
- Relieve nasal congestion with saline nose drops (which you can buy over the counter).
- Place a cool-mist humidifier in your bedroom to increase air moisture.
- Allow for plenty of rest.
- Drink a lot of non-caffeinated fluids such as water and juice.
- Provide relief of fever and aches with acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
When to Call Your Doctor
Call your doctor if you have your symptoms worsen or you experience any of the following:
- Nostrils widening with each breath, rapid breathing or difficulty breathing.
- Nasal congestion persisting more than 10-14 days.
- A cough that lasts more than one week.
- Temperature higher than 102 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Excessive sleepiness or irritability.
- Ear pain.
Not sure if you have the cold or the flu? Call Mercy Nurse at (515) 643-2584 or call your primary care provider’s office and find out if your symptoms could be the cold or flu, and if you need to be seen by your provider.
Original article written by Sarah Todd, published in Health Matters January/February 2015.