Expert Weigh-in on How to Tell the Difference between the Flu or a Cold

 

Now that we are fully in flu season, you may find yourself wondering if you have a common cold or the flu. Experts say there are some clues to help ensure you get the right treatment. 

While certain symptoms overlap, there are some differences. In both cases you may experience a cough, sore throat and a stuffy, running nose. However if you have a fever, chills, and body and muscle aches, it is probably the flu. Bad headaches and fatigue are another indication you most likely have more than the common cold. Children with the flu may also suffer from vomiting and diarrhea.  

As the flu can have more serious consequences, another way to determine if it is the flu or a cold is how the illness starts. The flu hits a person hard and fast, while a cold starts out much slower. For example, a person may start out a day feeling just fine but from the time they leave work to when they get home, they may become feverish with muscle aches throughout their body.  

Doctors stress the importance of getting an annual flu shot as every year adults and children are hospitalized with the flu. Complications include pneumonia and bacterial infections, with some of the worst cases leading to death. Both the flu and colds are spread through droplets spraying into the air when someone coughs, and can spread from contaminated surfaces that come into contact with the droplets. Most flu vaccines are free or low cost with insurance; however, if you are uninsured or underinsured there are options available.

MorningStar Senior Living at Golden Ridge offers seniors a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community with an array of amenities and services. Our senior living options include assisted living and independent living along with memory care. We are dedicated to creating a true home for carefree retirement years. Please visit our website for contact information and to learn more about our home, our services and our company, and ask about our Move-in Specials.