When you find yourself wrapped up in a blanket surrounded by tissues, a hot mug of tea, and nasal spray, you likely have the common cold. If a fever is added to the mix, could it still be a cold? Yes. While a fever is not a frequent symptom in adults for the common cold, a low-grade fever sometimes happens. Higher fevers may require a check for the flu.

Cold Symptoms

A cold is made up of primarily respiratory-related symptoms lasting about a week. The symptoms include:

• Sore throat
• Runny nose
• Congestion
• Cough
• Low-grade fever

Fevers in children are more common when it comes to a cold. If your child is experiencing the abovementioned symptoms, including fever, there is no reason to panic. However, if your child also has a high fever that will not come down with medication and lasts more than a couple of days, you will want to contact your child’s doctor.

Flu Symptoms

The flu is often confused with the common cold, but the symptoms vary in severity. The flu also tends to include additional symptoms. The signs to expect with the flu are:

• Sore throat
• Congestion
• Cough
• Headaches
• Muscle aches and pains
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Fever

Should you find yourself with the flu, you will probably experience symptoms for less than a week. Preventing a worsening illness requires the necessary rest and care. The use of over-the-counter medications can be beneficial to you, or you can contact a physician for further instruction.

Treating a Fever

You may require fever reduction medication if you are unable to break it naturally. High fevers can be scary, and need medication to bring them down. When you take a fever reducer, it can take time to start to work. In the meantime, you might try placing a cool rag on the back of your neck or using an ice pack to lower your temperature. You can also wear light clothing, use a light blanket or sheet instead of something heavy and hot, and drink plenty of cool water. Eating cold foods can also be beneficial to lower your core temperature.

Getting plenty of rest is also needed in lowering your temperature. A fever is the result of your body fighting off something that isn’t supposed to be there. To aid in the fight, rest is the greatest asset. Try a nap after you’ve taken your fever reducer, and you may see an improvement.