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Important: Knowing the Distinction Between the Cold and the Flu Could Save Your Health


It’s that time of year again in Seattle when coats, mittens, and caps are the norm, right along with runny noses and missed school days. But if you or your child starts getting the sniffles, at what point should you start worrying if it’s a cold or the flu? Make no mistake; it’s an important distinction, because the common cold will typically resolve itself with home remedies, while the flu may require medical attention. So, let’s take a closer look…

Differences Between the Cold and the Flu

During onset, cold and flu symptoms might seem similar, including sore throat, congestion, and coughing, which often lasts no more than 3-5 days.
But when you’re trying to discern if it’s a cold or the flu, a lot of it comes down to whether or not you’re running a high fever. While it’s true that cold symptoms may include a low-grade fever, flu-based fevers typically reach much higher temperatures if left unaddressed. On top of this, flu patients may also experience nausea and vomiting.

Which of the Following Are You Experiencing?

  • You may have a cold if: You’re experiencing mild respiratory discomfort (coughing, sneezing, runny nose), a low-grade fever, and sore throat, which will generally subside after a few days. From beginning to end, symptoms generally last one week. If your symptoms persist, you may have a bacterial infection and require immediate medical treatment.
  • You may have the flu if: You have a mid to high-grade fever, sore/achy muscles, nausea, and/or vomiting. It’s often the case that flu symptoms will appear quickly and severely, and will keep you bed-ridden for at least a few days.

Now that You Know What to Look For, it’s Time to Act

Once you have a better idea if you’re exhibiting cold or flu-like symptoms, at what point should you visit your healthcare provider? It all comes down to one word: severity.
If your symptoms persist for more than a few days, or are severe (e.g. excessive vomiting, high fever, etc.), then it’s time to make an appointment with AFM. Even though flu symptoms are generally worse than those from the common cold, if they’re too severe and/or you’re unable to overcome them, let us quickly put you back on the road to wellness.

Need Help with Your Cold or Flu Symptoms? Contact AFM Today!

We here at AFM are concerned about the health of you and your family, and recognize that your busy life doesn’t allow time for being out with a cold or the flu. Because of this, we specialize in providing you with some of the best cold and flu treatments available. Give us a call today at (425) 453-6838.
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