Treatment for Cold and Flu Symptoms at IEP Urgent Care
When you start feeling under the weather, it can be difficult to tell whether you have a common cold or the flu. While both are respiratory illnesses caused by viruses, they have key differences in symptoms, severity, and duration.
If you're feeling symptoms of cold or flu and you’re unsure how to properly treat it, or if you want to protect yourself againt the influenza virus, the ER-trained providers at IEP Urgent Care can treat your symptoms and provide vaccinations to protect you and your family.
Cold vs. Flu: Understanding the Basics
When you start feeling under the weather, it can be difficult to tell whether you have a common cold or the flu. While both are respiratory illnesses caused by viruses, they have key differences in symptoms, severity, and duration.
Cold Symptoms
The common cold is usually mild and develops gradually. Symptoms often include:
-
Runny or stuffy nose
-
Sneezing
-
Sore throat
-
Mild cough
-
Low-grade fever (rare)
-
Mild body aches or fatigue
Colds typically last 7–10 days, and most people recover without complications.
Flu Symptoms
Influenza, or the flu, tends to come on suddenly and is more intense than a cold. Common symptoms include:
-
High fever (often over 100.4°F)
-
Chills and sweating
-
Severe body aches
-
Fatigue and weakness
-
Dry, persistent cough
-
Sore throat
-
Headache
The flu can lead to complications such as pneumonia, especially in young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.
Key Differences
The main distinction is severity—while a cold is mild, the flu can be debilitating. Fever and body aches are much more common with the flu, whereas sneezing and congestion are more typical of a cold.
Prevention and Treatment
Both illnesses spread through respiratory droplets, so good hygiene—like frequent handwashing and covering coughs—is crucial. There is no cure for either, but rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications can help ease symptoms. Flu vaccines are available at IEP Urgent Care and are recommended annually to reduce the risk of severe illness.
If you experience severe flu symptoms, difficulty breathing, or symptoms lasting longer than 10 days, visit any of our IEP Urgent Care locations for prompt treatment.
Knowing the difference between a cold and the flu can help you take the right steps for a quicker recovery and prevent the spread of illness to others.