Cold & Flu

Whether it’s cold or flu, it can make you feel awful and disrupt your life. At Pronto Med Care, board-certified physician Jessica Carpenter, MD, and the experienced family medicine specialists understand how inconvenient and uncomfortable cold and flu symptoms can be. They provide compassionate and effective care to help you get better faster. Same-day and walk-in appointments are available. Phone the Toms River, New Jersey, office or use online scheduling now.

What is the difference between cold and flu?

Understanding the differences between a cold and flu can help you identify your symptoms more accurately.

A cold is less severe than the flu. Symptoms usually come on gradually. Common symptoms often include a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, and mild fatigue. Fever is uncommon with a cold.

The flu, or influenza, is usually more severe than a cold and comes on suddenly. Symptoms may include fever, chills, body aches, fatigue, cough, and headache. The flu can lead to complications such as pneumonia, especially in high-risk groups like seniors.

How are cold and flu treated?

The Pronto Med Care team relieves symptoms and promotes recovery in a variety of ways. Common approaches include:

Rest

Resting allows your body to focus its energy on fighting the infection.

Hydration

Drinking plenty of water helps thin mucus and relieve congestion.

Over-the-counter medications

Over-the-counter medications such as pain relievers, decongestants, and cough suppressants can help relieve cold or flu symptoms. Make sure you use them as directed. The team takes your medical history and symptoms into account and explains the best way to use over-the-counter medications for your specific needs. 

Antiviral medications

People who have a high risk of complications or severe flu symptoms may need prescription antiviral medications. When taken early enough in the course of the illness, antiviral medications can lessen the intensity and duration of the illness.

How can I prevent cold and flu?

Preventing colds and flu involves adopting healthy habits and minimizing exposure to viruses, including:

Good hand hygiene

Regular handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds can help prevent the spread of viruses.

Flu vaccinations

The Pronto Med Care team recommends annual flu vaccines for everyone six months and older to protect against seasonal flu viruses.

Healthy lifestyle

Eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, managing stress, and getting enough sleep can support a healthy immune system.

Avoid sick people

Avoid close contact with sick people. When you’re sick, stay home to prevent spreading the virus to others.

At Pronto Med Care, the talented and knowledgeable specialists are dedicated to providing personalized care to help you and your family stay healthy. The team offers same-day and walk-in services for cold and flu, so reach out online or call the office today for help.