Distinguishing a Cold From Influenza
When you first notice a cough and sniffle, you probably assume it is a common cold. In most cases, this is correct. However, there are a few ways to tell if you or your loved one have a more serious illness such as influenza.
Symptoms of influenza tend to come on much more quickly. Although you may notice minor symptoms at first, they progress quickly. In most cases, people go from the initial mild symptoms to a full-blown illness within about 48 hours. The fever and muscle aches will come on almost immediately.
Another way to tell influenza from the common cold is that the symptoms last different amounts of time. A cold usually subsides within a few days. Influenza can have severe effects for four days or more. People may have to be out of work or school for a week or more.
Although the flu can be a serious and long-lasting illness, it can be overcome with the right treatment. It is important to get medical treatment for anyone who does not seem to be recovering, especially the very young. Catching illnesses is inevitable, but most can be overcome with the right treatment and TLC.
