So You're Sick...Is it a Cold or the Flu?

Its winter, the most popular time of the year for everyone to be sick. You can't walk into a public place without hearing someone sniffle or cough. So, how do you know if you have the flu or the cold? Many people believe that the symptoms are very similar--when in fact the symptoms and treatments can be VERY different.

COLD:

Symptoms:

• Sore throat (first 1-2 days)
• Nasal symptoms (runny nose followed by stuffy nose)
• Cough (usually around the 4th or 5th day)
• Slight fever is possible (more likely in children, less than 100 degrees)

Treatment: 

• Sore Throat: throat lozenges containing benzocaine work well 
• Nasal Symtoms: 
• Runny nose: Chlorpheniramine or Diphenhydramine (will cause drowsiness)
• Stuffy nose: pseudophedrine, phenylephrine or oxymetolazone (Afrin Spray)--caution if high blood pressure
• Sneezing
• Hacking Cough: dextromethorphan for dry cough, guaifenesin for productive cough
• Fever: Acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen 
• See a doctor if you have not improved within a week, you may have a bacterial infection and need an antibiotic

Duration: 

• Symptoms usually last around 5 days
• You are contagious the first 2-3 days

FLU:

Symptoms:

• Often more severe and come on rapidly
• Sore throat
• Fever (Often as high as 102 or higher and can last 3-4 days)
• Headache
• Body aches/Muscle aches
• Fatigue (can linger for 2-3 weeks)
• Cough/Chest Pain 

Treatment: 

• Sore Throat: cough drops or throat lozenges containing benzocaine work well 
• Fever/Heachace/Body Aches/Muscle Aches: Acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen 
• Cough: dextromethorphan for dry cough
• Plenty of rest and relaxation is the key to recovery! 

Duration: 

• Contagious for first 2-3 days--hand washing and proper hygiene can help reduce transmission
• Transmitted from all mucous membranes (eyes, nose, mouth) 
• Symptoms will begin to improve within 3-5 days, though some strains can last more than 7-10 days