Sore throat, cough, fever: Is it a cold, the flu or strep throat?

 

The common cold

The common cold is an upper respiratory illness, meaning that it affects the nose, throat and sinuses but not the lungs. It is caused by a virus. Although some people think colds are more common in the cold seasons, you can actually get a cold in any season. It is spread from person to person through hands, sneezing, or coughing.

What are the symptoms of a cold?

• Sneezing
• Stuffy nose
• Runny nose
• Sore throat
• Cough
• Low fever (100°F–101°F)
• Headache
• Feeling tired, achy and unwell

How long does a cold last?

• Most colds last 3–10 days, but for some it will be as long as 2 weeks
• Colds can last longer for smokers

Influenza, or the flu

Like the common cold, the flu is caused by a virus, but it’s a different kind of virus. It is more common beginning in October and ending in May (flu season). It can make you feel really terrible, and for some people it can cause serious problems. So what are you waiting for? Get a flu shot! You don’t need this kind of trouble in your life.

Symptoms

• Fever higher than 100°F
• Cough
• Headache and body aches
• Sometimes a sore throat and runny nose

How long does the flu last?

Most people feel better within 1–2 weeks.

Strep throat

Strep throat is an infection of your throat that is NOT caused by a virus, but by a bacteria called Group A Streptococcus. This is where antibiotics are helpful, because they are made to kill bacteria.

What are the symptoms of strep throat?

• Sore throat, especially when swallowing
• Fever higher than 100.4°F
• Headache
• Swollen glands in the sides of your neck
• Feeling achy and unwell

When to call your doctor or get emergency help

• Have trouble breathing or feel short of breath
• Are drooling because you cannot swallow your saliva (spit)
• Have swelling of the neck or tongue
• Cannot move your neck or have trouble opening your mouth

Illnesses like cold, flu and strep throat can make the winter months a challenge. It helps is to take good care of yourself all year round, so when it’s time for your body to fight off an illness, it has the best possible chance of winning the fight as quickly as possible.

Make an appointment by calling 0925-567-5329 • 0908-865-5662 • 0917-566-1932 • 458-0717 and schedule a consultation today.

Visit us at BRITANNIA MEDICAL CENTER - The Enclave
Enclave Complex, Fil-Am Friendship Road, Angeles City.
britanniamed@gmail.com || www.britanniamedicalcenter.ph || britanniamedicalcenter.blogspot.com