How to stay healthy during cold, flu and pneumonia season

Considering the recent outbreaks, it is good to know the differences between a cold, flu and pneumonia and when to stay home or seek medical care.

The common cold and flu are both respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs’ air sacs (alveoli), which causes inflammation and may cause the sacs to fill will fluid or pus.

Cold symptoms are usually milder and last for about a week. A sore throat is the first symptom, followed by a runny nose, congestion and a cough. It is possible for adults to experience a slight fever, but this symptom is more common in children. Nasal secretions start out watery and become thicker and darker.

If cold symptoms last longer than a week and are not improving, check with a doctor to ensure that the symptoms are not from an allergy or sinus infection.

Flu symptoms are similar to cold symptoms but are more severe. Flu symptoms come on quickly and may include sore throat, congestion, fever, headache, muscle aches, soreness, vomiting and diarrhea. If you are experiencing a persistent fever, cough or painful swallowing, call or visit with a doctor.

Typically, flu symptoms slowly improve within two to five days, but it’s not uncommon to feel sluggish for a week or more.

Pneumonia can become a problem for those with flu. Symptoms can range from mild to so severe that hospitalization is required. The type of germ that caused the infection, your age and your overall health are factors that determine how your body responds to pneumonia.

Common symptoms include fever, chills, greenish yellow or bloody mucus, producing cough, shortness of breath, shallow breathing, sharp stabbing chest pain, loss of appetite and fatigue. Symptoms may start out like flu, but within a couple of days, they become worse. Call your doctor immediately if you think you have symptoms of pneumonia.

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