Cold vs. Flu: Spotting the Differences

These common winter illnesses can look similar. Can you spot the differences?

While we know that Covid-19 is getting the spotlight, it’s important not to forget that colds and flu are still common respiratory infections in kids. Would you be able to spot the differences between the flu or cold in your child? While our Sacramento, CA, pediatricians at Timberlake Pediatrics can certainly provide you with the proper diagnosis, we also know how important it is for parents to be able to detect these warning signs for themselves.

Cold vs. Flu: Spotting the Differences

Nasal congestion, sore throat and a persistent cough can be a sign of either the cold or the flu, so how are you supposed to tell them apart? Other symptoms, as well as the severity and onset of the symptoms, can often reveal to our Sacramento, CA, pediatricians whether your child is dealing with the flu or cold. Is it a cold? It might be if,

• Your child’s symptoms are mild at first and gradually get worse
• Your child is sick but still seems to have energy
• Your child’s symptoms last anywhere from 3-10 days
• Their symptoms include a cough, runny nose, sneezing, congestion and even a fever

On the other hand, your child could be dealing with the flu if,

• Their symptoms are more severe and appear suddenly
• Your child is extremely exhausted or fatigued
• Your child has a high fever (if your child has a cold they may not have a fever at all or the fever may be low-grade)
• They are dealing with muscles aches, chills, weakness, high fever or headaches
• Their symptoms linger for a couple of weeks (even once they’ve fully recovered)

Are the cold and flu treated differently?

Since colds tend to be milder, home care is often sufficient for managing symptoms. Regardless of the type of infection your child is dealing with, it is imperative that they stay hydrated. Rest, cough medications, warm baths, pain relievers (to reduce fever) and cold compresses can all alleviate discomfort and help speed up the recovery process.

If you suspect that your child has the flu make sure to keep them home from school until they are feeling better. While most children won’t need to come in for flu treatment, if your child is immunosuppressed or dealing with a chronic health problem, our Sacramento, CA, pediatricians can provide your child with medication that may speed up their recovery by a couple of days.

If you are ever concerned about the symptoms your child is experiencing, know that our Sacramento, CA, pediatricians here at Timberlake Pediatrics provide urgent and prompt medical care to children and teens when they are sick or injured. To schedule an appointment with us, call (916) 688-5040 today.