Treatment for Cold and Flu Symptoms at IEP Urgent Care
​When you start feeling under the weather, it can be difficult to tell whether you have a common cold or the flu. While both are respiratory illnesses caused by viruses, they have key differences in symptoms, severity, and duration.
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If you're feeling symptoms of cold or flu and you’re unsure how to properly treat it, or if you want to protect yourself againt the influenza virus, the ER-trained providers at IEP Urgent Care can treat your symptoms and provide vaccinations to protect you and your family.
Cold vs. Flu: Understanding the Basics
When you start feeling under the weather, it can be difficult to tell whether you have a common cold or the flu. While both are respiratory illnesses caused by viruses, they have key differences in symptoms, severity, and duration.
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Cold Symptoms
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The common cold is usually mild and develops gradually. Symptoms often include:
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Runny or stuffy nose
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Sneezing
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Sore throat
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Mild cough
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Low-grade fever (rare)
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Mild body aches or fatigue
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Colds typically last 7–10 days, and most people recover without complications.
Flu Symptoms
Influenza, or the flu, tends to come on suddenly and is more intense than a cold. Common symptoms include:
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High fever (often over 100.4°F)
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Chills and sweating
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Severe body aches
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Fatigue and weakness
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Dry, persistent cough
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Sore throat
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Headache
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The flu can lead to complications such as pneumonia, especially in young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.
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Key Differences
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The main distinction is severity—while a cold is mild, the flu can be debilitating. Fever and body aches are much more common with the flu, whereas sneezing and congestion are more typical of a cold.
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Prevention and Treatment
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Both illnesses spread through respiratory droplets, so good hygiene—like frequent handwashing and covering coughs—is crucial. There is no cure for either, but rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications can help ease symptoms. Flu vaccines are available at IEP Urgent Care and are recommended annually to reduce the risk of severe illness.
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If you experience severe flu symptoms, difficulty breathing, or symptoms lasting longer than 10 days, visit any of our IEP Urgent Care locations for prompt treatment.
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Knowing the difference between a cold and the flu can help you take the right steps for a quicker recovery and prevent the spread of illness to others.