As flu season approaches, it’s important to be able to recognize the early signs of the flu and understand when it’s time to seek medical attention. While the flu shares some symptoms with the common cold or other illnesses, there are specific indicators that can help you distinguish between the two.
At Integrity Urgent Care, we’re here to help you stay healthy throughout the flu season. If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, it might be time to schedule an appointment with one of our healthcare providers at a location near you.
Sudden Onset of Fever or Chills
One of the most common flu symptoms is a sudden high fever – typically considered 100.4°F or higher for children and 99°F or higher for adults – often accompanied by chills. While a low-grade fever might be a sign of a cold, a sudden, high fever is a strong indicator that you may have the flu.
Severe Fatigue and Body Aches
Unlike the common cold, which generally causes mild fatigue, the flu tends to hit hard with extreme tiredness and muscle aches. If you’re feeling unusually fatigued, have sore muscles, or experience joint pain, the flu may be to blame. These symptoms can make it difficult to go about your day-to-day activities.
Persistent Cough and Sore Throat
While both the flu and cold can cause coughing and a sore throat, the flu typically causes a more persistent, dry cough. If your cough is severe or lasts for more than a few days, combined with a sore throat, this could indicate the flu.
Headaches
Intense headaches are a hallmark symptom of the flu. While mild headaches can accompany a cold, the flu often brings on pounding headaches that may be severe and long-lasting. These are often felt in the forehead area and can be accompanied by other flu symptoms like fever and body aches.
Runny or Stuffy Nose
While a runny or stuffy nose is common in colds, it’s less common in flu cases. However, if you do have a stuffy nose in combination with other flu symptoms, it’s worth paying attention to. Flu-related congestion often comes along with fever, chills, and a more pronounced feeling of illness than a typical cold.
How to Protect Yourself from the Flu
The best way to protect yourself from the flu is through practicing good hygiene habits like frequent hand washing, covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals. Influenza vaccines can also minimize your risk of getting the flu.
What to Do If You Have Flu Symptoms
If you notice any combination of these common flu symptoms, it’s important to seek medical advice. At Integrity Urgent Care, we offer rapid testing for the flu and can help you determine the best course of action. In some cases, early treatment with antiviral medications can reduce the severity and duration of symptoms.
Don’t Wait – Get the Flu Care You Need!
Although colds, fevers, viruses, and the flu share some symptoms, there is a difference between them. At Integrity Urgent Care, we can help diagnose the difference and help you get well again quickly at one of our several locations across Texas. If you’re unsure whether your symptoms point to the flu or something else, don’t hesitate to contact Integrity Urgent Care and schedule your visit. Our compassionate healthcare team is here to provide fast, reliable care when you need it most.
