by Dr. Elizabeth Bailey, Family Medicine
12/18/2007

Colds and the flu are common illnesses during the winter months. Although the terms are often used interchangeably, there are key differences between a cold and the flu. It’s important to understand the contrasting symptoms of each to help decide when it’s time to visit your physician and when rest and over-the-counter medication will do the trick.

The main difference between the cold and flu is the location of the problem. Colds are generally centered in the nose, which is why people often use the term “head cold.” People with a cold typically experience a runny nose, nasal congestion and sneezing. Nasal discharge can be yellow or green with a cold, but this is not usually reason for alarm. Instead, this signals the body’s attempt to get rid of the virus. Colds usually last for about a week. If the symptoms last longer, this could be a sign of another problem such as allergies or a sinus infection.

In contrast to colds, the flu makes people feel sick all over. The most common symptoms include a fever, body aches, a flushed face, headaches and fatigue. After a couple of days, the body aches tend to subside and respiratory symptoms, such as a cough or sore throat, become more noticeable. People with the flu should be careful to monitor respiratory symptoms because they can lead to more serious problems such as bronchitis or pneumonia. The worst part of the flu usually lasts for up to four days, though the respiratory symptoms may linger up to 10 days. Because the flu can lead to more serious illnesses, it’s important to call your doctor if symptoms do not improve or get worse.

Home treatment typically works well for both the cold and the flu. Non-prescription medication can help alleviate many of the symptoms associated with both ailments. Pain relievers such as Tylenol (or other acetaminophens) and Advil (or other ibuprofens) can help headaches and body pain associated with the flu. Nasal decongestants can help unclog a stuffy nose, while antihistamines will stop a runny nose. Cough suppressants will help alleviate coughing, and expectorants will help loosen phlegm and mucus in the chest. Additionally, it helps to get plenty of rest and to drink lots of fluids.

To reduce your chances of getting a cold or the flu this season, pay special attention to hygiene, specifically:

• Wash your hands often and thoroughly with soap;
• Turn away from people when you sneeze or cough;
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth;
• Stay away from people with a cold or flu;
• Avoid large crowds if possible; and
• Clean surfaces you touch regularly with a disinfectant.

For more information about preventing or treating a cold or the flu, contact your physician.

Dr. Elizabeth Bailey is board-certified in family medicine and is a member of the medical staff at Weatherford Regional Medical Center. Her office is located at Weatherford Primary Care, 716 E. Anderson, Suite 100 in Weatherford. Please call 817-596-7900 to schedule an appointment.