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Common Cold or Flu?
Cold symptoms associated with the common viral cold often will
consist of sore throat, runny nose, congestion, nonproductive cough,
mild fatigue and rarely fever or headache. Usually lasts 2-10 days.
Treatment consists of tylenol or motrin for sore throat and fever.
Over the counter antihistamines/decongestants and cough syrups or cough
drops will help with runny nose, congestion and cough.
The respiratory flu or Influenza often starts with sudden onset
of sore throat, fevers, chills, cough, muscle aches and pains, fatigue, weakness,
and headache. Usually lasts 7-14 days. Treatment includes annual
vaccine for prevention and antiviral medication to shorten the course of
disease if started within 24-48 of onset of symptoms. Symptomatic treatment
consists of tylenol or motrin for sore throat, fever, and muscle aches, as
well as, over the counter antihistamines/decongestants and cough syrups or
cough drops for runny nose, congestion and cough. Complications of
flu may include bronchitis, pneumonia or sinusitis which can be severe or
life threatening.
Contact your physician should you have any underlying medical diseases or
questions concerning your illness.
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