During the cold winter months it can feel like cold and flu symptoms are never ending when you have young kids. Sometimes it’s hard to know whether your child has a cold or the flu. We understand it’s tough to know when to make an appointment with the pediatrician so here are some tips that might help you differentiate the two.
The Common Cold
Kids can experience up to 10 colds in the first 2 years alone, with even more once kids begin daycare or preschool, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Colds spread quickly among young children and especially in school and daycare settings. Colds can spread through coughing or sneezing into the air or onto the hand and then touching other people. When a healthy person then touches the cold germs and then touches their own mouth or nose, the cold can spread.
A cold is characterized by the following symptoms:
• Coughing
• Runny nose
• Low-grade fever (101- 102)
• Sneezing
• Decreased appetite
• Fussiness
A cold or Upper Respiratory Infection is a viral illness that does not need to be treated with medication and in general, symptoms subside on their own after 7-10 days. The AAP does not recommend the use of cough or cold medication in children. Instead of cough medication, try using a humidifier or sit in the bathroom with a warm shower running. Breathing in the steam can help to loosen mucus. Honey or warm honey lemon water can also coat the throat and help with coughing. (Note: children younger than one year old should not be given honey).
Preventing colds
It is best to keep babies away from anyone with cold symptoms, especially in the winter time. Teaching older kids to cover coughs and sneezes along with good hand-washing can help prevent spreading germs. Washing hands with warm soapy water for 20 seconds, or the time it takes to sing “Happy Birthday”, can help to prevent the spreading cold and flu germs.
When to call the doctor
If your child is experiencing difficulty breathing, ear pain, pus on tonsils, or temperature over 102, call your pediatrician. While not common, some colds can turn into more severe illnesses like croup or bronchiolitis, which can require further treatment. Always call the doctor if young babies 3 months of age or younger are experiencing illness. Contact Advanced Internal Medicine for best treatment options in Elgin & Sycamore, IL.
Flu
The Flu, short for Influenza is more severe than a cold and in many cases can be prevented with the flu vaccine. Usually, the flu season lasts from the autumn to the spring. The flu spreads similar to a cold, through the air via cough or sneeze or by touching contaminated surfaces (like door knobs, counter tops, or toys) and then touching the mouth or nose.
Flu symptoms include:
• Fever 101+
• Chills and body aches
• Headache
• Sleepiness
• Sore throat
• Dry cough
• Stuffy or runny nose
Flu symptoms can last up to a week or more. Your child can get tested for influenza at the pediatrician’s office if they are exhibiting flu-like symptoms. Treatment may include anti-viral medication within 24 hours of the onset of flu symptoms. Rest and plenty of fluid can also be beneficial. Most symptoms will subside after 7-10 days.
Flu Prevention
The flu shot can help prevent the flu or decrease severity of symptoms. It’s especially important for infants, children, pregnant women, and anyone who is at risk to receive the flu vaccine. Like colds, appropriate hand washing can prevent spreading germs.
Conclusion
By understanding the key differences between a cold and flu, you can seek appropriate treatment and manage your symptoms effectively. If you’re concerned about your health, especially during cold and flu season, consult with your primary care physician or women’s health specialist for guidance.
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FAQs
1. What are the 5 stages of flu?
The 5 stages of the flu in brief:
- Incubation (1–4 Days) – No symptoms yet, but the virus is multiplying, and you are contagious.
- Onset (Day 1–2) – Sudden fever, chills, body aches, sore throat, and fatigue.
- Peak (Day 2–4) – Symptoms worsen; severe cough, congestion, exhaustion, and possible nausea.
- Recovery (Day 5–7) – Fever subsides, but cough and fatigue may persist.
- Post-Flu Fatigue (1–2 Weeks After) – Lingering tiredness and weakness, with possible mild cough.
2. how long does the flu contagious?
The flu is contagious for 5–7 days after symptoms start:
- 1 day before symptoms – You can spread the virus.
- First 3–4 days – You are most contagious.
- After 5–7 days – Contagiousness decreases, but those with weak immunity may spread it up to 2 weeks.
3. What are the best treatments for a cold vs. the flu?
For a cold, rest, hydration, and over-the-counter decongestants help. For the flu, antiviral medications (if taken within 48 hours of symptoms) can shorten the illness, along with plenty of fluids and rest.
4. how long are you contagious with flu after taking tamiflu?
With Tamiflu, the flu remains contagious but may be shortened by 1–2 days if taken early. You are still most contagious for 3–4 days after symptoms start. Stay home until fever-free for 24 hours without medication.
5. How to know when the flu is ending?
You’ll know the flu is ending when:
- Fever is gone for 24+ hours without medication.
- Energy levels improve, and body aches fade.
- Cough and congestion lessen, though a mild cough may linger.
- Appetite returns, and chills stop.
Medically Reviewed By
At Advanced Internal Medicine of Northern Illinois, Dr. Ashima Salwan, MD, treats adult and geriatric patients, men and women alike, working through some of the most common and most connected health problems out there: obesity,...
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