Distinguishing between a cold, the flu, or norovirus can be tricky because they share some symptoms, but key differences in onset and primary symptoms can guide you. It’s important to know the signs of each illness to seek the right care. In this blog, we will discuss the unique characteristics of each illness and explain how urgent care can help treat each.

For same-day illness treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Union City. Our urgent care center is equipped to diagnose and treat all non-life-threatening conditions seven days a week, no appointment necessary.

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What Are the Main Symptoms of the Common Cold?

The main symptoms of a common cold are primarily respiratory and tend to come on gradually. Unlike the flu, a cold rarely involves a high fever or severe body aches. If you have a cold, you will likely experience a stuffy or runny nose first, followed by a sore throat and cough. While you may feel unwell, a cold usually doesn't prevent you from going about your daily activities. Most colds resolve on their own within a week to ten days with rest and hydration.

Common cold symptoms include:

• Runny or stuffy nose: This is often one of the first and most persistent signs of a cold.

• Sore throat: You might feel a scratchy or irritated sensation in your throat.

• Cough: A mild to moderate cough is typical with a cold.

• Sneezing: This is a very common symptom as your body tries to clear the nasal passages.

How Can I Tell If I Have the Flu?

You can often tell you have the flu by the sudden and intense onset of symptoms that affect your whole body. The flu, or influenza, hits much harder and faster than a common cold. One moment you might feel fine, and the next you could be dealing with a high fever, significant muscle or body aches, and extreme fatigue. These symptoms can be severe enough to keep you in bed for several days. While you might also have respiratory issues like a cough or sore throat, the systemic symptoms are what truly set the flu apart.

Flu symptoms often appear abruptly and can include:

• Fever or feeling feverish/chills: A high temperature is a hallmark of the flu.

• Muscle or body aches: These are typically more severe than the mild aches you might get with a cold.

• Headaches: Intense headaches are common with influenza.

• Fatigue: You may feel an overwhelming sense of tiredness and weakness that is debilitating.

What Makes Norovirus Symptoms Different?

Norovirus symptoms are different because they are centered on your digestive system, causing acute gastrointestinal distress. Also known as the stomach flu, norovirus is not related to influenza. Its symptoms appear very quickly, often within hours of exposure, and include severe nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. You might also experience stomach cramping, a low grade fever, and general body aches. The main concern with norovirus is dehydration due to fluid loss, so it's crucial to stay hydrated.

Norovirus symptoms are distinct and focused on the stomach:

• Nausea and vomiting: These are the most prominent and distressing symptoms.

• Diarrhea: Watery diarrhea is very common and can occur multiple times a day.

• Stomach cramps: Sharp and painful cramping in the abdomen is a classic sign.

When Should I Seek Urgent Care for These Illnesses?

You should seek urgent care if your symptoms are severe, persistent, or if you are at high risk for complications. For a cold, this is rarely necessary unless symptoms worsen or don't improve after ten days. With the flu, you should consider visiting an urgent care clinic if you have a very high fever, difficulty breathing, or chest pain. For norovirus, seeking medical attention is important if you show signs of severe dehydration, such as dizziness, a dry mouth, or an inability to keep liquids down. Timely diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and prevent more serious issues.

Get Expert Diagnosis and Care at AFC Urgent Care Union City

At AFC Urgent Care Union City, we provide prompt and professional care for a wide range of non life threatening illnesses. Our experienced team can help diagnose whether you have a cold, the flu, or norovirus and recommend the best course of treatment to get you back on your feet. We offer convenient walk in care services for the Union City community, so you don't need an appointment. To learn more about our services or get the care you need, visit our clinic today. We accept most health insurance plans and offer cost-effective options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about the services we provide, call us directly at (551) 257-1948.