Handling Common Winter Illnesses with Choice Physicians Group
Acute Viral Infections
A Cold vs the Flu: Understanding the Difference
Influenza (the flu) and colds are two contagious viruses that share a lot of the same symptoms. How you experience those symptoms and their commonality are two ways in which the flu and the cold are very different.
Compare these flu and cold symptoms to see an overview of the similarities and differences of each.
Common Flu Symptoms
- Fever 100°F and above (lasting 3-4 days)
- Dry Cough (mild to severe)
- Sore Throat (sometimes mild)
- Clear, runny stuffy nose
- Chest congestion (mild to severe)
- Muscle body aches (usually, often severe)
Common Cold Symptoms
- Fever – uncommon or low-grade
- Hacking Cough
- Sore throat – mild to severe
- Stuffy nose with thick or green/yellow mucus
- Chest Congestion – uncommon or mild
- Muscle/body aches – uncommon or mild
RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) in adults is not as common as it is in babies and the immunocompromised, but it can still affect adults and older children. In most healthy adults and children, the effects are minor and like those of a cold. Some of these common symptoms include
- Congested or Runny Nose
- Dry Cough
- Low Grade Fever
- Sore Throat
- Sneezing
- Headache
These symptoms are usually pretty mild and can be managed at home with over-the-counter medications.
Managing Cold and Flu Symptoms at Home
Now that we have discussed the type of illnesses we are seeing, we’d like to take a second and talk about how to manage these symptoms at home. You can get these items over the counter and they can alleviate most of the common symptoms while the virus runs its course.
Cough: cough syrup/drops, Vicks chest rub, humidifier, eucalyptus oil, honey
Chest Congestion: Decongestants (Mucinex DM or MAX), humidifier, eucalyptus oil, oregano oil
Fever: Cold fluids, ice chips, a tepid bath to prevent shivering; avoid giving anything that could suppress the immune system, like Tylenol or Motrin, since fevers are a normal bodily response to fighting the virus
Headache: Tylenol or Motrin, Arnica tabs, ice pack on neck or forehead, fluids, resting
Sore Throat: Saltwater gargle, “Throat Coat” tea, throat spray (the Triology throat spray is available through the Choice Physicians Care office)
Muscle/Body Aches: Arnica tablets, Epsom salt bath or steam bath
Our physicians also suggest- Vitamin C
- Zinc
- B complex vitamins
- Vitamin D3 with K2
- Vitamin A
- NAC – helpful for breaking down mucus
- Probiotic every evening
- Nasal rinses using saline spray or a Neti Pot
- Humidifier in your bedroom
- Breathing exercises for fresh air therapy
- Hydration
- Frequent Rest
Symptoms of RSV and Contacting Your Healthcare Provider
If you find yourself taking the “Do I have the flu” quiz, it’s time to give your healthcare provider a call. RSV is highly contagious and can spread from the upper respiratory tract to the lower respiratory tract. The following symptoms should not be ignored and need to be evaluated by a medical professional. If you are experiencing ANY of these symptoms, contact our office for immediate care or seek your nearest Urgent Care facility.
- Wheezing
- Difficulty Breathing
- Bluish color to the lips or skin.
In infants, the presentation of severe RSV infection is different. The following symptoms are seen as severe and should be treated immediately. If exhibiting ANY of these symptoms, contact your nearest Emergency Department.
- Shallow, Rapid Breathing
- Struggling to Breathe
- Lethargy (unusual tiredness)
- Changes in mental status
As always, if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please stay home and rest! If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to call us at 913-544-2248 and we will be happy to help you. We hope that this information has been helpful and we are truly blessed to serve you and your families.