It can be difficult to differentiate between the cold and the flu due to the number of shared symptoms, yet it is important to do so as the flu can cause complications and may require treatment. Both are respiratory illnesses that cause some similar symptoms, but they are caused by different viruses.
Cold Symptoms: Do I have a cold?
When determining between a cold or the flu, one of the first things to notice is the severity of symptoms. Cold signs and symptoms are similar to those of the flu, except that cold symptoms tend to be milder than flu symptoms and are more likely to include runny or stuffy noses.
Colds are viral upper respiratory tract infections affecting the nasal area. Cold signs and symptoms can include headaches, sneezing, runny noses, coughs, and a sore throat.
Usually lasting for 7-10 days, colds tend to be more prevalent in the spring and winter. Colds do not typically require treatment and will usually go away on their own. Occasionally, a cough will remain after other cold symptoms have passed, indicating a chest cold, which is known as bronchitis, and medical treatment may be required.
If symptoms seem to be on the strong side from the outset, visiting Xpress Urgent Care to test for the flu may be necessary.
Flu Symptoms: Do I have the flu?
Worse than the common cold, the flu is caused by the Influenza virus. It can last up to a week and can cause serious complications.
In order to determine whether one has the flu for sure or not, it’s imperative to be tested within the first few days of the onset of symptoms. Testing can ensure that one receives the necessary treatment, which can help to limit the severity of symptoms and can limit the length of the flu.
Flu signs and symptoms include fever, chills, muscle and body aches, headache, fatigue, sore throat, cough, and stuffy or runny nose. The symptoms are typically much more severe than those caused by a cold. The severity of symptoms at the beginning of the illness is a sign that one should be tested for the flu.
The best way to avoid being infected with the flu is to receive an annual flu shot. The flu shot takes about two weeks to begin protecting you from the virus, so make sure to receive it as early as possible each year. It is recommended that all people aged 6 months and older receive an annual flu shot as protection from flu infection.
Take preventative measures to protect yourself and your family from the flu each year. Walk-in or check-in online to receive your annual flu shot at our Orange County clinic.
Flu test and treatment at Xpress Urgent Care
Our walk-in clinic in Orange County serves the communities of Tustin, Santa Ana, Orange, Irvine, Costa Mesa, and Newport Beach. There is no appointment necessary, just walk-in or check-in online when it is convenient for you.
It is important to be tested for the flu at the onset of symptoms for accurate results and proper treatment. For your convenience, our clinic is open from 8 AM to 8 PM, 7 days a week. We are also open holidays so that you can receive the treatment that you need right when you need it.
Our clinic is equipped with onsite x-rays and labs. When you come to our walk-in clinic, you can expect to receive compassionate care that includes evaluation, testing, and treatment, all in one place. For fast and affordable flu testing and treatment, walk-in today.
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