Cold vs. Flu... Whatever Should You Do?

You're feeling beaten down... like you went several rounds in a boxing ring. So, what was causing that sick feeling? A stiff right from The Cold Calamity or an overwhelming undercut by The Fearsome Flu?

In some ways, a cold & flu are similar. Both:
- are caused by viruses that enter through mucous membranes.
- can be prevented through healthy behaviors.
- can make you feel lousy for up to a week (although coughs or fatigue could last longer).

But, they are also very different.
- Flu symptoms are usually more severe & last longer. (However, an annual flu shot can help prevent the flu &/or minimize symptoms.)
- The flu hospitalizes & kills people every year. Children, pregnant women, the elderly, & people with chronic health issues are often at more risk of complications.
- If appropriate, your healthcare provider may prescribe antiviral medication for the flu.

Prevention
- Although not immediate, it still isn't too late to get your flu shot... (See our 10/18/14 blog post.)
- Wash your hands regularly with soap & water for 20 seconds (sing the alphabet twice or "Happy Birthday").
- If no sink is available, use hand sanitizer. Wash whenever possible.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, & mouth.
- Practice & teach others to:
   * use a tissue & dispose of it promptly.
   * cough or sneeze into the inside of the elbow (aka "Count Dracula") to avoid germy hands.
- Enough sleep, healthy foods, less stress, & light to moderate physical activity helps keep your immune system stronger.

Treatment
- Stay home from daycare, school, or work!
- Get plenty of rest.
- You may need to drink more liquids than usual. (Hot tea, chicken soup, & fruits & veggies all help.)
- To avoid interactions or overdosing, talk to your pharmacist or healthcare provider before combining prescription &/or over-the-counter medications.
- Learn serious signs & symptoms. Or, call your healthcare provider to ask if you should be seen.

For more info, check out:
- WebMD's Flu or Colds?
- Dept of Veteran Affairs' Cold vs. Flu: Know the Difference
- Kaiser Permanente's Self-Care for Adults
- American Academy of Family Physicians' Colds & The Flu-- Treatments (includes advice for kids)
- our related blog posts-- 10/24/13 & 10/18/14.