The Common Cold vs. the Flu

The Common Cold vs. the Flu  from Millennium Medical Care in Fairfax, VACommon cold and the flu often have similarities. The flu has more severe symptoms. Awareness of their differences can help you get earlier treatments from the local urgent care clinic. If you want to know the differences between the flu and common cold, here are the details.

The causes

There are at least 200 strains of viruses. Some coronaviruses and rhinoviruses cause the common cold. COVID-19 is one of the coronaviruses in this category. Influenza A, B, or C cause the flu. The most common types of influenza viruses are A and B.

The symptoms

Upon the onset of each, it is almost difficult to tell if a person has the flu or a common cold. A cold often has a slow development. A runny or stuffy nose is a common symptom in this mild viral infection. The flu symptoms start right away. They tend to be more intense as well. Below are the flu symptoms not evident in a common cold:

  • Headache
  • Fever for three to four days
  • Weakness or fatigue
  • Lower back pains
  • Chills

People with colds do not experience diarrhea or vomiting. A person with flu may. An infected individual could go to an urgent care facility to have a good diagnosis. This should happen upon the onset of the symptoms. The urgent care provider could then give early treatment for the symptoms.

Common cold and the flu may have the same symptoms. Some people may have flu without fever. Others may have a cold with fever and coughing. The attending doctor can help determine which of these viral infections were caught by the individual.

The complications

Often, colds do not lead to more complicated issues. But colds can trigger an asthma attack in individuals with asthma. The flu can result in severe complications. It can lead to bacterial infections or even pneumonia. These complications often cause annual hospitalizations and fatalities.

Mode of transmission

Common cold and the flu have the same modes of transmission. These illnesses are both contagious. A person in close contact with an infected person can get the infection. Touching a contaminated surface or inhaling infective droplets can cause infection as well.

The treatments

The common cold and the flu both result from viral infections. Antibiotics cannot work against these illnesses. Most infected persons will get better within a couple of weeks. Relieving their symptoms is possible through home remedies or specific medications. Fever reducers, decongestants, and expectorants are a few of the common medications for these conditions.

Preventive measures

Practicing good personal hygiene measures can help prevent the common cold and the flu. Proper handwashing can prevent an infection. Proper rest and a healthy diet can enhance one’s immunity. A flu vaccine each year can prevent colds and the flu. Staying away from infected people and wearing face masks can protect other people from the infective aerosols.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Common Cold and Flu Treatment in Fairfax, VA

Common cold and the flu have similarities and differences

These two illnesses come from viruses. A person suffering from either cannot get relief from antibiotics. A proper diagnosis from an urgent care clinic can determine if you have a common cold or the flu. Then, you can get the right treatment.

Request an appointment or call Millennium Medical Care at 703-372-4429 for an appointment in our Fairfax office.

Recent Posts

The Common Cold And Fever Reducers

Curing a common cold is always at the top of the list of every healthcare professional. But until now, there is still no universal cure for this type of upper respiratory tract infection. Urgent care facilities focus on treating each symptom. If you want to know more about the common cold and its fever reducers,…

How The Common Cold Is Spread

The common cold is an upper respiratory infection. It is a contagious illness you can get if you are not careful. Being extra careful is important. Knowing how it spreads can help you avoid contracting it. If you want to know how the common cold spreads, here are the details.The common cold virus is spread…

The Symptoms Of The Common Cold

The rhinovirus causes the common cold. It is a pathogen capable of making you miserable and forcing you to stay home for days. Understanding its symptoms can tell you to go to the urgent care facility early. If you want to know the common cold symptoms, here are the details.An individual sneezes when there is…

Recent Posts

What To Expect During Your Child&#    ;s School Physical

What To Expect During Your Child's School Physical

School physicals are essential to preparing children for a successful school year, ensuring they are healthy, active, and ready to participate in school activities, including sports. During a school physical, a provider conducts a thorough assessment to check a child's overall health, identify potential health concerns, and ensure they meet the school's health requirements. Here…

The Common Cold And Fever Reducers

The Common Cold And Fever Reducers

Curing a common cold is always at the top of the list of every healthcare professional. But until now, there is still no universal cure for this type of upper respiratory tract infection. Urgent care facilities focus on treating each symptom. If you want to know more about the common cold and its fever reducers,…