Can you catch both a cold and flu simultaneously? Explore symptoms, treatments, and tips for recovery at urgent care near you. Walk-in today!
Spending time at the Northwest Georgia Trade and Convention Center or hiking through the beautiful trails of Dalton can be a great way to enjoy the area, but cold or flu symptoms could quickly derail your plans.
We’ve all been there—suffering through a nasty cold, only to start feeling even worse. It begs the question: Can you catch both a cold and the flu at the same time? While it’s not common, it is possible to be infected with both viruses, which can make you feel far worse than usual.
Can You Really Catch Both?
Yes, but it’s pretty rare. The common cold and the flu are caused by different viruses—rhinoviruses are responsible for colds, while influenza viruses cause the flu. It is possible to be exposed to both viruses simultaneously or within a short time frame. When this happens, your body may struggle to fight off two infections at once, which can result in more severe symptoms.
How Would You Know if You Have Both?
The symptoms of a cold and flu overlap, which can make it hard to tell if you’re battling both at the same time. However, the combined effect of these illnesses can intensify your symptoms. Here’s what to look out for:
- Cold Symptoms: Usually mild, these include sneezing, a runny nose, a sore throat, and mild fatigue.
- Flu Symptoms: These are more severe, such as high fever, chills, body aches, headaches, and extreme tiredness.
- If You Have Both: You may notice that your cold symptoms start to worsen quickly, with additional flu symptoms like fever and body aches piling on top of the usual congestion or sore throat. Your recovery may also take longer than usual.
Why Can Having Both Can Make You Feel Worse?
When you’re infected with two viruses at once, your immune system is working double-time. The result? You’ll likely feel more exhausted, and your symptoms could be more intense than they would be with just a cold or flu on its own. Additionally, fighting off two infections at once may put more strain on your body, increasing your risk for complications, especially if you have an underlying health condition.
How Are Cold and Flu Diagnosed?
If you suspect you’re dealing with more than just a cold, it’s important to visit your healthcare provider. At AFC Urgent Care Dalton, our providers can assess your symptoms and determine whether you have the flu by administering a rapid flu test. In some cases, they may also evaluate you for other viral infections or bacterial complications, such as sinus infections or bronchitis, which can develop alongside or after a cold or flu.
How Are Cold and Flu Treated?
There’s no cure for either a cold or the flu, but treatment options can help relieve symptoms and speed up recovery:
- Cold Remedies: Over-the-counter medications can help reduce congestion, cough, and sore throat symptoms. Be sure to get plenty of rest and drink fluids to stay hydrated.
- Flu Treatment: If you’re diagnosed with the flu, your doctor may prescribe antiviral medications to shorten the duration of your illness. These work best when taken within the first 48 hours of symptoms.
Whether you have just a cold, the flu, or both, rest is key to allowing your body to heal. It’s also crucial to avoid spreading your illness to others by staying home, especially if you’re experiencing flu symptoms.
How to Avoid Getting Both a Cold and the Flu
While it’s possible to catch both viruses at the same time, there are ways to reduce your risk of falling ill during cold and flu season:
- Get a flu shot: The flu vaccine can significantly lower your chances of catching the flu and reduce the severity of symptoms if you do get sick.
- Wash your hands frequently: Germs spread easily, especially during flu season, so keep your hands clean and avoid touching your face.
- Avoid close contact with sick people: Stay away from those who are showing symptoms of illness.
- Boost your immune system: Eat a healthy diet, get enough sleep, and stay active to keep your immune system strong.
Feeling Sick? Visit AFC Urgent Care Dalton Today
If you’re feeling worse than usual and suspect you may have the flu—or even both a cold and the flu—don’t hesitate to visit AFC Urgent Care Dalton. Our team can diagnose and treat both illnesses, helping you get back on your feet faster. No appointment is necessary, so stop by today.
