This winter, you may be experiencing illness and ask yourself… Do I have a cold or the flu? If you are suffering from long-lasting symptoms, don’t ignore them. Visit AFC Urgent Care Stoneham to see a medical provider that can help diagnose which illness you have. Our team can recommend a treatment plan to get you feeling better fast!
The clinic offers treatment for many different general illnesses, including the common cold and influenza. We are able to examine your specific symptoms to get a proper diagnosis, with the help of our on-site labs. Read on to learn about the differences between colds and flu, and seek treatment if necessary!
The Common Cold
Colds and the flu are both caused by viruses. The symptoms of each illness can be hard to distinguish in some cases. One way to differentiate if you have a cold is by how quickly the symptoms started to become noticeable. Typically, colds are defined by their gradual onset. You may start with a runny nose, then a few days later could begin suffering from a sore throat. The common cold affects millions of individuals each year, and may leave patients feeling unwell for weeks.
Those with the common cold usually experience symptoms such as:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sore throat
- Mild headache
- Mild tiredness
- Sneezing
- Hacking cough
How is the common cold treated?
As we move into the colder months, many of us might expect to start feeling unwell. Colds are more common during the winter months due to the dry air that allows viruses to spread easier. There is no vaccine to prevent a cold, but there are at-home remedies and medical treatment options available to help you feel better. At home, make sure you are drinking plenty of fluids and getting a lot of rest. Visiting the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Stoneham is a great resource to find treatment from your persistent cold symptoms. Treatment at an urgent care may include prescription medication.
The Flu
Influenza is another common illness during the winter months, and can cause illness for patients of all ages. One way to differentiate the flu from the common cold is by how sudden the symptoms can be felt. As opposed to a cold, influenza symptoms become noticeable quickly and can feel more severe.
Flu symptoms include, but are not limited to:
- Aches and pains
- Tiredness and fatigue
- Headaches
- Sore throat
- Dry cough
- Temperature exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit
How is the flu treated?
The flu vaccine is the best way to prevent influenza. Any person over the age of six months should seek to receive their flu vaccination each year. Getting your flu shot not only protects yourself from illness, but those around you. Visit AFC Urgent Care Stoneham to get your walk-in flu shot today. If you have already begun to experience flu symptoms, our licensed medical providers can extend quality care. The flu can be treated primarily with rest, fluids and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory pain relievers.
Because colds and flu share many symptoms, it can be difficult to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone. When you come visit the team at AFC Urgent Care Stoneham, your symptoms will be accurately diagnosed. We’re open every day of the week, so visit our urgent care center with no appointment necessary. If you have any more questions about our services, walk-in or call today at (781) 279-4000.
