Cold and flu viruses are among the most common ailments most people experience. Many symptoms of colds and flus overlap, which can make it difficult to determine what exactly is troubling you or a loved one. Your local pharmacy will gladly provide insight on helpful treatments, but here are some basic differences to help you know what you're dealing with.

Cold Symptoms

Once exposed to the cold virus, it can take from one to three days before symptoms actually appear. Most people experience mild-to-moderate symptoms that resolve on their own in a week or so. Rest and over-the-counter medications are the most common treatments provided. Cold symptoms typically include congestion, sneezing, runny nose, cough, throat soreness, body aches, and a low-grade fever.

These symptoms usually don't require medical intervention, but see a doctor if they don't improve after more than a week or if they seem to get worse. You should also seek medical care if you experience a fever higher than 101.3 degrees Fahrenheit for three or more days, or if you experience shortness of breath. Newborns up to 12 weeks of age should receive additional medical care if their temperatures reach 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or if their symptoms become more severe.

Flu Symptoms

The flu is also caused by a virus, but there are numerous strains of this virus that can have slightly different symptoms. Unlike common colds, flu symptoms tend to occur suddenly after exposure, but they can also cause respiratory symptoms like sneezing, coughing, and congestion. The flu is also associated with fever, chills, throat soreness, headaches, body pain, and fatigue. Children may experience stomach upset, including diarrhea.

Symptoms typically resolve within a few days but can last as long as two weeks in some cases. While many people experience mild-to-moderate flu symptoms, those who are very young or old or who have compromised immune systems may be at risk of serious complications, including pneumonia, inflammation of the heart, and worsening of chronic medical conditions.

If you have questions about common ailments and how they can be treated, turn to Hickman's Pharmacy in Princeton. Since 1947, this pharmacy's friendly and knowledgeable staff have assisted clients from across southern West Virginia. When getting a prescription filled, you can look forward to a wait of ten minutes or less. Contact this pharmacy today by calling (304) 425-2188, or visit the website to learn more about their medical products and services.