Cold, Flu, or Allergy? Tips and Treatments
Symptoms
Fever
Cold
Rare
Headache
General Aches, Pains
Fatigue, Weakness
Uncommon
Slight
Sometimes
Extreme Exhaustion
Never
Stuffy, Runny Nose
Sneezing
Sore Throat
Cough
Common
Usual
Common
Common
Chest Discomfort
Mild to moderate
Flu
Usual, high (100-102
°F), sometimes higher,
especially in young
children); lasts 3-4
days
Common
Usual; often severe
Usual, can last up to 3
weeks
Usual, at the beginning
of the illness
Sometimes
Sometimes
Sometimes
Common, can become
severe
Common
Airborne Allergy
Never
Uncommon
Never
Sometimes
Never
Common
Usual
Sometimes
Sometimes
Rare, except for those
with allergic asthma
Get plenty of rest.
Get plenty of rest.
Avoid allergens (things
Treatment
Stay hydrated. (Drink Stay hydrated.
that you’re allergic to)
plenty of fluids.)
Aspirin (ages 18 and Antihistamines
Decongestants.
up), acetaminophen, or Nasal steroids
Aspirin (ages 18 and ibuprofen for aches,
Decongestants
up), acetaminophen, or pains, and fever
ibuprofen for aches and Antiviral medicines
pains
(see your doctor)
Wash your hands often. Get the flu vaccine
Avoid allergens, such
Prevention
Avoid close contact
each year.
as pollen, house dust
with anyone who has a Wash your hands often. mites, mold, pet
cold.
Avoid close contact
dander, cockroaches.
with anyone who has
the flu.
Sinus infection middle Bronchitis, pneumonia; Sinus infection, middle
Complications
ear infection, asthma can be life-threatening ear infection, asthma
NIH News in Health December 2014