When you start feeling under the weather, it’s natural to wonder what’s causing your symptoms. A runny nose, cough, fever, or body aches can all point to several illnesses– including a common cold, the flu, or COVID-19. While these conditions share many similarities, understanding their key differences can help you determine your next steps. In this blog, we’ll explore the symptoms and diagnoses for each condition so you know when to seek medical attention.
For same-day illness testing and treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver University Hills. Our team is available seven days a week to treat all patients in the Denver, CO area. Simply walk-in or plan your visit in advance below!
Common Cold Symptoms
The common cold is typically the mildest of these three illnesses. It’s caused by a few different viruses, the most common being rhinoviruses. Cold symptoms tend to develop gradually and are generally less severe. Fever is uncommon with a cold, especially in adults. Symptoms usually resolve within 7 to 10 days without the need for medical intervention.
Common cold symptoms often include:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sore throat
- Sneezing
- Mild cough
- Fatigue or mild body aches
Flu Symptoms
The flu, caused by influenza viruses, tends to hit harder and faster than a cold. Key symptoms of a flu infection include:
- Sudden onset of fever
- Chills
- Severe body or muscle aches
- Fatigue or weakness
- Dry cough
- Sore throat
- Headache
Some people, particularly children, may experience nausea or vomiting with the flu. While most people recover within a week or two, the flu can lead to complications like pneumonia, especially in older adults, younger children, or individuals with chronic health conditions. If you experience severe symptoms, like difficulty breathing or persistent chest pain, seek medical attention.
COVID-19 Symptoms
COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has a wide range of symptoms that can vary in severity. Unlike the flu or a cold, COVID-19 can lead to more severe respiratory issues and other complications. Additionally, COVID-19 symptoms can linger for weeks or months in some individuals, a condition known as long COVID. Testing is the only definitive way to confirm a diagnosis.
Common COVID-19 symptoms can include:
- Fever or chills
- Cough (often dry)
- Shortness or breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Headache
How To Tell The Difference
It can be challenging to differentiate between these illnesses based on symptoms alone, as they often overlap. However, the following factors can help provide clues:
- Cold: Mild, gradual symptoms with no fever.
- Flu: Sudden, intense symptoms with fever and body aches.
- COVID-19: Loss of taste or smell, along with respiratory symptoms.
When in doubt, testing is your best option. Rapid tests for COVID-19 and flu are available at many urgent care centers and can help you get an accurate diagnosis in a timely manner.
Get Walk-In Illness Testing & Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Denver University Hills
If you’re unsure whether your symptoms are due to a cold, the flu, or COVID-19, visiting an urgent care center can provide clarity. Medical professionals can assess your condition, provide necessary testing, and recommend treatment to help you feel better faster. For severe symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Taking swift action can make all the difference in managing your health. At AFC Urgent Care University Hills, our team of healthcare providers can diagnose the cause of your symptoms and recommend treatments to help you feel better quickly! We accept most health insurance plans and offer cost-effective options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about the services we provide, please call us directly at (303) 756-4500.
