Cold or Flu?

What's the difference between a cold and a flu? Both may include stuffy nose, sore throat, headache, cough, and fever. The flu includes body aches, chills, often a high fever, and comes on suddenly. With a cold there may be a fever, usually of no more than 102 degrees.

The National Institutes of Health has two articles showing the differences between colds and flu, with in depth expalanations of prevention, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments.

Complications from both cold and flu may include bacterial infections which can have serious effects on elderly people. Keeping one's immune system up and running well is important in preventing these complications. Taking care of oneself during a cold or flu is important also.

According to the NIH, Tamiflu® (oseltamivir) and Relenza® (zanamivir) are two drugs approved by the Understanding Flu.

CDC that are used to treat flu symptoms within the first two days of infection. Check out their explanations in the article,

If you experience chills due to a flu you may want to use a microwave heating pad to help provide comfort and relaxation. Maine Warmers' Back Warmers and Neck Wrap can be microwaved and taken to bed without the fear of overheating while falling asleep. There aren't any electrical wires and extension cords or hot water bottles to fill. This Cozy Penguin provides warmth and comforting companionship for children and elderly people who are experiencing the chill of a flu or inactivity due to illness or surgery.