Do You Have A Cold Or The Flu?

Nausea And Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are symptoms of the flu, and they do not occur with colds. Pediatric patients with the flu tend to experience nausea and vomiting more often than adults, and these symptoms could be accompanied by diarrhea. To ease nausea, it can sometimes help to go outside and get fresh air, and doctors suggest eating light, bland meals or following the BRAT diet. Ginger and peppermint are effective home remedies for some patients. After an episode of vomiting, the patient should avoid eating and drinking for at least thirty minutes. Patients can then try to drink a few sips of water or broth every ten to fifteen minutes. If the patient can keep the liquid down, they can begin to increase fluid intake after four hours without vomiting. Mashed potatoes, rice, and crackers can be added if the patient has not vomited in eight hours. Adults should see a doctor if they experience nausea or vomiting for more than a week. It is especially important to seek medical attention if these symptoms are accompanied by a rapid heart rate, abdominal pain, confusion, or a high fever above 102 degrees Fahrenheit.

Learn about the different risks attached to the common cold and flu next.

What Are Some Other Risks Of The Cold And Flu?

For the most part, the common cold does not lead to severe complications. Complications of the common cold, when they do occur, however, include an acute ear infection and acute sinusitis. Individuals who suffer from asthma may find the common cold leads to an asthma attack if they do not treat it properly. The flu, on the other hand, has a much higher potential to lead to complications in the first place, and the complications that do occur tend to be more severe. The complications linked to the flu include pneumonia, bronchitis, and bacterial infections, including ear infections. Patients also experience asthma flare-ups, just like with the common cold. Signs of pneumonia include chest pressure and discomfort, difficulty breathing, coughing with green mucus, a sore throat, and a consistently high fever. Children, pregnant women, elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions are at increased risk of developing these complications. A doctor should be notified if the flu is present in any of these at-risk individuals or if signs of complications are present.

Uncover the available treatment options next.