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Is it a Cold or the Flu?
Use this interactive guide for information about how to treat the symptoms of a cold or the flu and how to know when to see a doctor. Other illnesses may also cause flu- or cold-like symptoms. Self-care is often all that is needed to treat common viral illnesses.
ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS:ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS:
Please click 'yes' or 'no' for each question below
Do you have a fever?
yes no forwardDo you have a sore throat and headache -- without nasal discharge?
backward yes no forwardSee your doctor if the sore throat or fever lasts longer than 48 hours. He or she can do a test to find out if you have strep throat. If you do, your doctor may give you an antibiotic to treat it. You should also get plenty of rest, and drink lots of water. Gargling with warm salt water may help relieve a sore throat.
backwardDid your symptoms start suddenly, and do you have a combination of symptoms including muscle aches, chills, a sore throat, runny nose, or cough?
backward yes no forwardGet plenty of rest, and drink lots of fluids. Over-the-counter medicines may relieve some of your symptoms. Your doctor may suggest a prescription medicine that may shorten the course of the flu. Prevent the flu by getting a flu shot each fall.
backwardDo you have a persistent cough that brings up yellowish or greenish mucus, wheezing and shortness of breath?
backward yes no forwardYou may be developing acute bronchitis an infection of the airways
Click here for treatment suggestions
backwardGet plenty of rest, and drink lots of fluids. If you smoke, cut down on the number of cigarettes you smoke, or stop smoking. Use an over-the-counter medicine for pain and fever, and an expectorant to ease the coughing. A humidifier may also relieve some symptoms. If symptoms persist or worsen, contact your doctor.
backwardDo you have a headache or muscle aches, nausea or vomiting, and watery diarrhea?
backward yes no forwardYou may have gastroenteritis (also called the stomach flu)
Click here for treatment suggestions
backwardGet plenty of rest. Children who have gastroenteritis should be given an oral rehydration solution to avoid dehydration. Ease back into eating with bland foods and clear liquids.
backwardDo you have a runny and/or itchy nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes?
backward yes no forwardTry an over-the-counter antihistamine medicine. If symptoms persist or worsen, contact your doctor.
backwardDo you have sneezing, a sore throat, headache, congestion and a runny nose?
backward yes no forwardTry an over-the-counter cold medicine to treat the specific symptoms you are having. Get plenty of rest, and drink lots of fluid.
backwardDo you have swelling or pain around your eyes, cheeks, nose or forehead, a headache, a dry cough, and/or discharge from the nose?
backward yes no forwardSee your doctor. Acetaminophen, ibuprofen and/or warm compresses may help reduce facial pain. A cool mist vaporizer may help your sinuses drain more easily. Drink plenty of fluids.
backwardFor more information, please talk to your doctor. If you think your problem is serious, call right away.
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