Is it a cold or the flu?
Colds
- Fever - sometimes, usually mild
- Headache - Occasionally
- General aches and pains- slight
- Fatigue and weakness- sometimes
- Extreme exhaustion- never
- Stuffy nose- common
- Sneezing- Usual
- Sore Throat- common
- Cough- mild to moderate/hacking cough
Treatments- may include decongestants, pain/fever reducers
FLU
- Fever- usually, higher, lasting 3-4 days
- Headaches- common
- General aches and pains- usual and often severe
- Fatigue and weakness- usual (can last for weeks)
- Extreme exhaustion- usual, especially at beginning of illness
- Stuffy nose- sometimes
- Sneezing- sometimes
- Sore Throat- sometimes
- Cough- common, can be severe
Treatments-may include decongestants, pain/fever reducers. Doctor may be able to prescribe anti-viral in some cases.
**Antibiotics do not help viruses**
