When you’re feeling under the weather, it can be hard to tell whether it’s just a pesky cold or something more serious like the flu. Understanding the difference can help you make the right decision about when to seek medical attention.
Colds are minor illnesses caused by various viruses (and sometimes bacteria) that afflict the respiratory tract. These usually clear up within a few days and rarely develop severe symptoms. However, the flu can be more serious.
The term “flu” is short for influenza, a class of fast-mutating viruses that can cause further health complications. Influenza often affects the entire body, not just the respiratory system, leading to fevers, full-body aches, and even nausea.
Given the similarities between flu and colds, it’s not always clear when to visit the doctor. It can be difficult to know whether to wait to get better or seek medical attention. We share signs that can help you determine whether to stay home or visit a medical clinic like Grand Peaks.
Differences Between the Cold and the Flu
Based on the symptoms, you can usually tell whether you have a cold or the flu.
The following signs typically indicate a cold:
- Cough
- Mild fever (if any)
- Runny nose
- Sore throat
- Unusual lethargy or drowsiness
- Feeling generally under the weather
Flu symptoms, though, are usually more severe and include:
- Fatigue (being unable to get out of bed or perform your usual daily activities)
- Headache
- High fever
- Intense body aches (often in the legs)
- Nausea and other gastrointestinal issues
- Sweats
Overall, the severity of flu symptoms is worse than cold symptoms. Most people notice something isn’t right within a few hours after onset and feel very sick.
The flu can push your temperature well over 100°F as the body fights infection. If it rises to 104°F, that can indicate danger (where organs begin to shut down).
The flu can also last for an extended period of time. While most colds resolve in a week, it may take the body as long as two weeks to clear influenza pathogens.
When to Visit a Medical Clinic for a Cold or Flu
So, when should you visit a medical clinic for suspected flu (or even a bad cold)?
When you have a persistent high fever
Usually, flu-related high fevers last a few hours, perhaps a couple of days. The body raises its temperature to help the immune system eliminate the virus.
However, if symptoms last longer than this, you should seek help. A chronically elevated body temperature is dangerous and could indicate a severe infection that you aren’t fighting off.
When you have chest pain or difficulty breathing
Flu viruses can also impact the respiratory system, making breathing harder. If this happens, seek medical attention immediately. Influenza can become life-threatening in cases of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) or subsequent pneumonia infection.
When your symptoms won’t go away
Persistent symptoms are another sign you should seek medical attention. The flu should begin to resolve in a week, but if it doesn’t, it could indicate an immune system compromise.
When you are a high-risk individual
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, you should go to a medical clinic for a cold or flu if you’re a high-risk individual. For example, young children, pregnant women, older adults, and individuals with chronic conditions should seek assistance immediately.
What to Expect at a Medical Clinic
When you visit a clinic for a cold or the flu, a medical professional will assess your condition. This evaluation helps determine the best treatment plan and may include tests—such as checking your body temperature or performing lung scans—to gauge the severity of the infection.
After that, your provider will recommend different treatment options. These could include:
- Taking various antiviral or fever-reducing medications
- Going back home to rest and hydrate
- Staying in a hospital where medical professionals can monitor your vital signs (for severe cases)
We recommend visiting your primary care doctor if you suspect you have the flu. Your primary doctor knows your medical history and can provide personalized treatment. They can also help manage underlying conditions that may be affected by the flu.
Self-Care and At-Home Remedies
Most cold and flu viruses disappear by themselves and don’t require medical treatment. Symptoms peak after a few days and subside. However, you can adjust the course of the illness with self-care and at-home remedies.
First, rest as much as possible. Get plenty of sleep to allow your immune system to work at maximum efficiency.
Combine rest with home remedies, such as drinking plenty of water and ginger tea. Staying hydrated is important, particularly when sweating or discharging mucus.
Over-the-counter medications for colds and flu are another option. These include throat-soothing drops, painkillers, and menthol/eucalyptus-based products.
During this time, continue monitoring your symptoms and measuring your progress. Ask yourself if your aches are declining, and take your temperature every few hours to ensure you aren’t entering the danger zone (over 103°F).
If you find that things are getting worse, reassess your situation and consider contacting your healthcare provider.
Preventing the Spread of Illness
It’s also worthwhile to invest in preventing the spread of illness. Ideally, you want to avoid passing the flu to someone else.
To avoid getting your friends, family, and coworkers sick, ensure you practice proper hygiene. Wash your hands, cover your mouth when you cough, and avoid close contact with other people.
You may also want to consider getting a flu vaccination, which can provide protection against symptoms and reduce the likelihood of transmitting the disease to others.
Visit a Medical Clinic in East Idaho
If you get the flu, working with a high-quality medical provider can help you feel better sooner. Contact Grand Peaks Medical to schedule an appointment at one of our three convenient locations.
