The common cold and the flu are common illnesses that affect a majority of the population every year, especially around the fall. They are both contagious, and can develop into other health conditions if left untreated. In this article, we’ll discuss the differences between cold and flu, and how to go about handling them. Visit AFC Urgent Care Edgewater for cold & flu treatment near Edgewater, MD.
Causes and symptoms of a cold
The common cold is caused by the Rhinovirus and exhibits the same symptoms as the flu. It takes 1 to 3 days for an infection to progress, but the first indicator of cold is usually sneezing and fever. Via sneezing, an infected person can transmit the Rhinovirus in the form of droplets to unsuspecting people. Once the infected droplets come in contact with the nose, eyes, ears, or mouth of the unaffected person, infection begins.
The following are the most common symptoms of a cold:
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Fever
- Low appetite
- General weakness
- Nasal congestion
- Headache
- Sore throat
Although less severe than the flu, cold symptoms can be uncomfortable. Self isolate and visit AFC Urgent Care Edgewater for symptom treatment options.
Causes and symptoms of the flu
The flu is caused by the Influenza virus. It affects the respiratory tract, majorly the throat, nose, and lungs, and can take 2 to 4 days to surface. There are three kinds of Influenza viruses, type A, B, and C. All strains are equally contagious via droplets released by coughing or sneezing. Influenza A and B are the most common strains, while Influenza C is mostly asymptomatic.
Flu symptoms may include:
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Sneezing
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Coughing
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Sore throat
- Low appetite
If you think you have the flu, it is important to self-isolate to ensure you are not spreading the virus. However, because it takes multiple days for symptoms to show, you may have it before you realize, which is why it is so contagious. Visit AFC Urgent Care Edgewater if you think you may have flu symptoms for quick diagnosis and treatment.
When to seek flu and cold treatment at urgent care
The only way to prevent flu is to get vaccinated yearly. The CDC recommends the annual flu vaccination to protect its citizens against flu infections. AT AFC Urgent Care Edgewater, we accept walk-ins for flu vaccinations, making it easier than ever to stay protected this fall. It’s also important that during cold and flu season, you wash your hands and regularly disinfect your environment, such as chairs, tables, and doorknobs to prevent the spread of the virus.
You should seek medical treatment when your symptoms worsen despite treatment. Cold and flu symptoms often respond to over the counter medications, however if your symptoms continue to worsen, the medical professionals at AFC Urgent Care Edgewater are here to help.
Walk-in to AFC Urgent Care Edgewater to get cold and flu treatment near Edgewater, MD
If you suspect you may have symptoms of a cold or the flu, visit AFC Urgent Care Edgewater for quick diagnosis and treatment options. Our healthcare professionals are here to provide advanced testing in-house, with no appointment required, so that you can get on the road to recovery fast. Walk-in today. If you have any additional questions, please contact us directly!
