Winter brings a spike in respiratory illnesses, and it’s easy to get confused when symptoms overlap. A cough, congestion, or fever could mean a cold, the flu, or COVID-19.
Knowing the difference helps you choose the right care and avoid spreading illness to loved ones.
This month, Dr. Rogers Walker and Shelley Gilbert, PA-C, explain how to tell the difference between illnesses and when to seek a sick visit here at Walker Family Care in Little River, South Carolina.
Even though symptoms of different seasonal illnesses can look similar, the viruses that cause them are different.
Colds, for example, are usually caused by rhinoviruses and are typically mild. The flu is caused by influenza viruses and is known for sudden, intense symptoms. COVID-19 is caused by SARS-CoV-2, with symptoms that range from mild to severe.
This difference in viruses explains why each illness spreads and affects the body differently, and may require different treatments.
Looking at what symptoms you have, how suddenly they started, and how severe they are is the best way to gauge which seasonal threat you’re battling.
Colds come on slowly and mildly. Most people experience a stuffy or runny nose, sneezing, a mild sore throat, and a light cough. Fevers are uncommon, and symptoms usually improve within a few days.
The flu often starts abruptly. People typically develop a fever, body aches, chills, headache, fatigue, and a more intense cough. Flu symptoms tend to be stronger than cold symptoms and carry a higher risk of complications.
COVID-19 symptoms vary widely. Many people report fever, fatigue, cough, sore throat, headache, congestion, or shortness of breath. Loss of taste or smell still occurs for some.
COVID-19 can also lead to lingering symptoms known as long COVID.
Because these illnesses look similar, testing is the best way to know what ails you. At Walker Urgent & Family Care, we offer:
Quick, accurate results from our on-site lab help you start treatment sooner and protect the people around you. Not only does testing confirm or rule out viral infections like the flu or COVID-19, but it can also rule out or confirm strep throat.
Strep throat is actually a bacterial infection. Unlike colds, COVID-19, and the flu, you treat strep throat with antibiotics. This is yet another reason why testing is important!
Most colds resolve with rest, hydration, and symptom relief. Flu symptoms may improve faster with antiviral medication, especially when started within 48 hours.
COVID-19 treatment varies depending on risk factors; high-risk patients may qualify for antiviral therapy. Antivirals for COVID-19 work best when started within five to seven days of your symptoms appearing, so don’t postpone your sick visit.
Regardless of whether you have a cold, flu, or COVID-19, nourish your body with healing, easy-to-digest foods like hot tea, bone broth, and oatmeal. These warm, simple foods help keep you hydrated, soothe throat irritation, and give your immune system the support it needs to recover more quickly.
If Dr. Walker determines that you have a bacterial infection instead, such as a bacterial sinus infection or strep throat, you’ll also need antibiotics. Take your antibiotics as directed and complete your full dose, even if you feel better.
Safety first: Seek immediate care for difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, or worsening symptoms.
No matter what respiratory illness you’re facing, our team is ready to help you get clear answers and feel better fast.
Walk in anytime or call ahead at 843-280-8333 for testing and treatment this winter.
