Cold or flu? Understand the key symptom differences and when to seek treatment at urgent care near you for better health. Visit today! 

Visiting the Lazy 5 Ranch or spending time at Lake Norman is always a great way to enjoy Mooresville, but don’t let cold or flu symptoms keep you from the fun. AFC Urgent Care Mooresville is here to help you get back on your feet quickly. 

With both colds and the flu being common during fall and winter, it’s easy to confuse one for the other. Since they share similar symptoms like a runny nose, sore throat, and cough, how can you tell which one you’re dealing with? While colds and the flu are caused by different viruses, knowing the key differences between their symptoms can help you decide how to treat your illness and when to seek medical care. 

Visit AFC Mooresville today. 

What Separates Cold From Flu?

While both colds and the flu affect the respiratory system, they differ in terms of severity, onset, and potential complications. 

Colds are typically milder and develop gradually over a few days. They are caused by rhinoviruses and are more likely to cause symptoms like a runny nose, sneezing, and a mild cough. You may feel under the weather, but most people can go about their daily activities with some rest. 

The flu, caused by the influenza virus, tends to hit harder and faster. Symptoms often appear suddenly and are more severe. The flu is more likely to lead to complications, such as pneumonia, especially in high-risk groups like young children, the elderly, and those with underlying health conditions. 

How to Spot the Differences in Symptoms 

While cold and flu symptoms overlap, there are a few key differences that can help you figure out which illness you have. 

Onset of Symptoms 

• Cold: Symptoms come on gradually over the course of a few days. 

•   Flu: Symptoms hit you quickly, often within a few hours, and can feel like they come out of nowhere. 

Fever 

• Cold: Fevers are uncommon with a cold, and if they do occur, they tend to be low-grade. 

• Flu: A high fever (above 100.4°F) is one of the hallmarks of the flu. It often lasts for three to four days. 

Fatigue 

• Cold: You might feel a little tired, but you’re generally able to keep up with most daily tasks. 

• Flu: Extreme fatigue is a common flu symptom and can leave you feeling too weak to function normally for several days. 

Body Aches and Chills

• Cold: Body aches are rare and mild if present at all. 

• Flu: Body aches and chills are a major indicator of the flu, often leaving you feeling sore and uncomfortable. 

Cough

• Cold: Coughs are usually mild and may produce some mucus. 

• Flu: The flu can cause a dry, persistent cough that may last for weeks after other symptoms have subsided. 

When to Visit Your Local Urgent Care

Most colds don’t require a visit to urgent care, and symptoms can usually be managed with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications. However, if you suspect you have the flu, it’s a good idea to seek medical care, especially if you’re in a high-risk group or if your symptoms are severe. Here are some signs that it’s time to visit our clinic: 

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath 

• High fever that lasts more than three days 

• Severe or worsening symptoms, such as chest pain or dizziness 

• A cough that lingers for more than two weeks 

At AFC Urgent Care Mooresville, we can perform a rapid flu test to confirm whether you have the flu and provide treatment options, such as antiviral medications. Antivirals are most effective when taken within the first 48 hours of symptoms, so it’s important to act quickly if you think you have the flu. 

How Do You Treat a Cold vs. the Flu? 

While there’s no cure for either illness, you can take steps to feel better and recover more quickly. 

Cold Treatment

• Stay hydrated and rest. 

• Use over-the-counter medications to ease symptoms like congestion, cough, and a sore throat. 

• Try saline nasal sprays or humidifiers to relieve nasal congestion. 

Flu Treatment

• If diagnosed early, antiviral medications may be prescribed to shorten the severity and  

• Rest and hydration are key to recovery. Drinking warm fluids like tea or soup can help soothe your throat and keep you hydrated. 

• Over-the-counter medications can help with fever, body aches, and congestion. 

Preventing Colds and the Flu 

The best way to avoid both colds and the flu is through prevention. Here are some steps to keep yourself healthy during cold and flu season: 

• Get the flu vaccine: The flu shot is your best defense against the flu. It can reduce your risk of getting sick and lessen the severity of symptoms if you do. 

• Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, avoid touching your face, and disinfect high-contact surfaces regularly. 

• Boost your immune system: Eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep, and stay active to keep your immune system strong and ready to fight off infections. 

Not Sure Which Illness You Have? Visit AFC Urgent Care Mooresville 

If you’re not sure whether you have a cold or the flu, or if your symptoms are getting worse, visit AFC Urgent Care Mooresville for a proper diagnosis. Our team can help you determine the best treatment plan so you can start feeling better, fast. No appointment is necessary!