Do you know the difference between cold and flu?
Often cold and flu symptoms overlap, so how can a mum know what exactly is wrong with her little one?
Having a cold
Day 1-3
The first symptom of a cold is usually a sore throat, followed by symptoms such as sneezing or a blocked, sore and runny nose. This is when you’ll feel the worst and typically 1 out of 3 people will experience a cough with an overall feeling of being unwell.
Treatment: Colds are caused by viruses and antibiotics cannot treat viruses. Drink plenty of fluids to replace those lost from sweating and runny noses. Get lots of rest and eat healthily, and you can resume normal activities if you feel well enough
Day 4-6
By this stage, most adults will start to feel better but children will take a little longer to get well again.
Treatment: Continue to drink plenty of fluids and eat healthily.
Day 7
You should be fully recovered by now; however it will take a little longer for young children. Also remember that if you have a cough, this can last three weeks.
Having the flu
Day 1-2
Symptoms like sore throat, fever and muscle ache develop quickly and you will feel very unwell.
Treatment: Most flu can be treated at home, so you most likely won’t need to visit the doctor; however people at risk of the complications of flu should consider visiting their GP. Drink plenty of fluids to replace those lost from sweating, get lots of rest and eat healthily.
Day 3-5
Your symptoms are now at their peak and you will feel at your worst.
Treatment: Continue to drink plenty of fluids to replace those lost from sweating and runny noses. Make sure you are still getting lots of rest and eating healthily.
Day 5-8
By now, you should start to feel better although a cough and general tiredness may last for a futher two or three weeks.
Treatment: Again, continue to drink plenty of fluids, eat healthily and return to normal activities when you feel better.
For more information on colds, flu and other common illnesses such as ear aches or tummy bugs, visit Under the Weather.