You wake up early with a bad headache, a dry throat and a body that hurts so much that moving is really hard. You think you caught a cold, but then you feel much worse and probably have the flu.
Many wonder why the flu feels so awful. Both illnesses, which make you feel bad and mess with your nose, throat and lungs, are caused by different germs. At Medicross Clinic and Urgent Care in Corona, California, we see these illnesses daily. We want to help you understand your body and exactly how to get better.
What Is the Difference Between a Cold and the Flu?
Viruses cause both illnesses and colds come from weak germs in the air. The flu comes from the influenza virus, which is a very specific and nasty bug that is incredibly strong.
A cold sneaks up on you with a runny nose on Monday and a cough on Tuesday, whereas the flu behaves differently. It hits you all at once, as you feel fine at breakfast but terrible by dinner, while the flu attacks your body much harder.
Key Signs You Have the Flu
Knowing early signs helps you get help fast. The flu brings severe signs that make getting out of bed impossible.
- A high fever showing up fast.
- Deep muscle aches from neck to toes.
- Chills that make your teeth chatter.
- Extreme tiredness lasting for days.
- A dry cough hurting your chest.
- A bad headache behind your eyes.
If you have these, your body is fighting a strong germ. You need extra rest immediately.
Why the Flu Feels So Much Worse
Why do you hurt so badly? The answer is your immune system. This is the internal defense team that works hard to keep you safe when the flu enters.
The fever burns the germs away. Body aches occur when your defense system releases powerful chemicals. Also, cold germs stay high in your nose. Flu germs go deeper. They travel into your lungs, causing a deep infection that results in chest pain and takes a ton of energy to fight, which is why you feel so incredibly tired.
Common Cold Symptoms to Watch For
A cold is milder, allowing you to often still go to work even if you move slower, so look for these signs to know if it is a cold.
- A stuffy or runny nose.
- Sneezing out loud all day.
- A mild sore throat.
- Red, watery, tired eyes.
- A slight cough that does not hurt.
A cold is annoying and rarely gives you a fever or deep aches, while the flu completely wipes you out.
How Long Will You Feel Sick?
A cold lasts only a few days and you feel better each morning, while the flu is longer-lasting with symptoms peaking over an entire week. You might be exhausted for another week even after your fever is gone. It takes time for your body to recover from such a huge battle and having some rest is the best way of healing.
When to See a Doctor for Your Symptoms
Most people rest at home to treat a cold, but the flu can become dangerous if ignored. Never wait to get help if you feel very bad and see a doctor right away if you notice these serious warning signs:
- Trouble taking a deep breath.
- Sharp chest pain when sitting up.
- Feeling dizzy when you walk.
- You cannot keep water down.
- Your fever returns even worse.
How Medicross Clinic and Urgent Care Can Help You
You do not want to wait days to see a doctor. Medicross Clinic and Urgent Care is ready to help fast. We are currently in Corona, California, where no appointment is needed. You can simply walk in.
We run quick tests to determine what germ is making you sick today while offering primary and urgent care for your family. If you are too sick to leave home, we offer telemedicine visits. You can talk to our doctors using your phone while staying in bed and we send medicine straight to your pharmacy while also providing flu shots.
Simple Ways to Feel Better at Home
Take good care of yourself at home because your body is doing hard work inside.
- Drink water, warm tea, or clear soup.
- Sleep as much as you can.
- Use a cool mist machine.
- Prop your head up with extra pillows.
- Eat warm soup to soothe your throat.
Always ask a doctor before taking new medicines. We can help you pick the safest options.
Steps to Keep Germs Away
Protect your family from bad germs before they strike.
- Wash your hands with soap for twenty seconds.
- Do not touch your eyes or your nose.
- Stay away from people coughing loudly.
- Clean areas in your house that people touch.
- Get your yearly flu shot at our clinic.
Final Thoughts on Staying Healthy
Knowing the difference helps you care for your body. A cold is mild, while the flu demands your full attention and lots of sleep, so you should never ignore severe sickness.
Let our friendly medical team help you get back on your feet by calling our Corona office or walking in today. We are always ready to answer any questions about your health.
FAQs
Q. What makes a cold and the flu different?
A cold comes on slowly and feels mild. The flu hits very fast because it comes from much stronger germs.
Q. What are the signs of the flu?
You might get a high fever right away. You will also feel deep body aches, chills and be very tired.