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Cold And Flu

What is the difference between a cold and the flu ?

A cold is a mild respiratory illness that can present symptoms that last for several days. While a cold is never a pleasant experience, its discomfort is far less than what you experience with the flu.

A cold often announces its presence with a sore throat. Nasal symptoms, such as a runny nose or congestion follow, and a cough often arrives on the fourth or fifth day. With a cold, symptoms usually improve within a week.

The flu usually presents symptoms that are more severe and come on more rapidly than those associated with a cold. Flu symptoms include :

An ultrasound gives Dr. Lalezary a great deal of information, including :

  • Sore throat
  • Fever
  • Muscle aches
  • Headaches
  • Congestion
  • Persistent cough
Generally, flu symptoms last far longer than cold symptoms.

When should I seek medical care ?

If you’re healthy, your body can probably fight off a cold in a matter of days. However, if your symptoms are severe or persist for more than a week, it’s time to call Gardens Medical Center for an appointment.

Any of these symptoms should prompt a call to Dr. Lalezary :

  • Fever that persists for more than three days
  • Coughing that lasts for more than two weeks
  • Congestion and sinus headaches that don’t improve after a week
  • Severe pain when swallowing
What if I develop bronchitis/strep throat ?

Bronchitis is a bacterial disease of the lungs. Symptoms include: fever, productive cough, and chest pain. Seeking quick medical attention is recommended in this case. We provide antibiotic injections right away.

Strep throat is a sore throat with fever caused by streptococcal infection. Common symptons include: fever, congestion, sore throat, and difficulty swallowing. We have in-house diagnostic and treatment tools to get get you better as soon as possible.

Is the flu vaccine safe and effective ?

The flu vaccine is the best way to prevent the spread of seasonal influenza. Flu vaccines are among the most reliable types of medicine currently in use, and everyone who is six years old or older should get a flu shot once each year.

Every year, a new seasonal flu vaccine is created. Researchers tailor the vaccine to prevent the transmission of the most dangerous and prevalent types of flu for that year.

Flu vaccines not only protect your health but also slow the transmission of the flu virus to people who are most vulnerable, including small children and the elderly.