
Flu or cold?
Influenza and the common cold are both caused by viruses. The symptoms of the two diseases are also similar:
- Fever, chills
- Common cold
- Sore throat and hoarseness
- Cough
- Headache and aching limbs
When you have the flu, however, the rise in fever is very rapid and the general feeling of illness comes without warning. In addition, other symptoms such as vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhoea can also occur, especially in children.
How do you know if you should see a doctor if you have flu or an influenza infection? The following symptoms should be taken seriously:
- High fever (over 40 degrees)
- Increasing pain (ears, face, head, chest, back)
- Bloody cough (cold)
- Purulent sputum (flu)
- Difficulty breathing and shortness of breath
- Neck stiffness and clouding of consciousness
- Symptoms last longer than 10 days
- Flu symptoms in chronic illnesses or elderly/weakened people
You can find more information on flu and flu-like infections, as well as tips on what you can do yourself, in the Well app under “Medical conditions”. All entries have been reviewed by doctors.
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