Is It the Flu

the flu is usually accompanied by a high fever, aches and more respiratory symptoms than a cold. One would feel more lethargic and grumpy w/the flu. Also typical would be a marked decrease in appetite. If you question it at all you pediatrician should be able to perform a rapid flu test. (I am a RN who works in a pediatricians office if this helps)

there is a difference between a bad cold and the flu that is a bad cold is just a runny noes, and a cough. the flu is fever, going to the bathroom alot, and looking pale. I play pogo to what is your game name?

K. (pogo name is mixee2008)

Hi L.,
Well, I know that when I had the flu it felt like a truck hit me! Fever, chills, body aches,vomitting,exhaustion - but no congestion. A lot of times, when people have the flu, they get very dehydrated, which can lead to worse problems, and a trip to the emergency room. Everyone's experiences are different however, so it's best to call the doctor when you are questioning how you are feeling.
:-) P.

A bad cold comes on more slowly.... symptoms develop over a period of time whereas the flu seems more sudden (especially the fever aspect that tends to spike higher than a cold which may have little or no fever unless an infection is present). You have a premie in the house so go to the doctors either way! My thoughts will be with you!

The 'flu is caused by a virus, and often comes with fever, chills, headaches, sore throat, body aches and clear discharge from the nose. The flu requires rest and lots of liquids - and time. Antibiotics do not help cure viruses, unfortunately. Elderberry syrup, which has anti-viral properties, is sometimes taken for 'flu.

The common cold bacterial in origin, and often comes with coughs, sneezing, sore throat, and yellow or green discharge from nose and throat. If the discharge gets very thick and green, or there is trouble breathing, you should definitely see a doctor, as there is a danger of the cold becoming bronchitis or even pneumonia, which could require antibiotics.

The only way you can really tell is by the doctor doing a nasal swab...when in doubt, call the doctor. It's been a horrible flu season and you don't want to mess around with that. Good luck!

Hi! A bad cold usually does not have a fever with it or body & joint aches otherwise the symptoms are similar. If you have a preemie you need to be sure it's not RSV. Don't ever be afraid to call your pediatrician, that's why they get paid the big bucks!!

Body aches is usually the key to knowing the differences, even if it is a head type flu, you will have the all over the body ache.

No but make sure you are vigalant. I just spent two days with my 21month old with RSV and I thought it was just the flu. They told me to watch the breathing if it looks like they are having a hard time, and the fever. This is the season for RSV. Suggested reading: http://www.kidshealth.org/parent/infections/lung/rsv.html

The flu comes on suddenly with chills and fever and fatigue. You can have a runny nose, sneezing and a cough that lingers. Head aches are also common. You will have body aches(myalgias)which usually responds to tylenol or motrin temporarily.

It is rare to get fevers with a routine cold, although you can, but it is generally low grade. A cold has nasal congestion, cough, ST and maybe headache.

For either, drink plenty of water and other hydrating fluids. Feel better soon!!

A.

The flu tends to be associated with body aches and low grade fever. Colds do not. The flu can be serious, especially for an infant who was a premie. If the symptoms are worsening ( or you child seems increasingly fussy or lethargic) CALL the DR., thats what they're there for! :)

There is a nasal test that the doctor can do for the flu. I just had it and had no clue what it was until the test was done. It caused me, as an adult, a lot of breathing difficulties, though so I can only imagine how bad it would be for a premie. If you are suspicious, get the test done so you can know what you are up against.

if he is sick moore then4 days and is runing a low grate temp. he has the flue my daughter went to the doctor after being sick for4 days. he said it was just a bad cold, o well one week went by and she did not get bether . i took her back to the doctor he still told me it was just a bad cold. but i nue something moore was going on . after 8 days she still was sick . i took her back to the doctors and he then gave her atibyoticcs. witch he should have done in the first place. i no my daughter. so she was out of school for 2 weeks. if he does not get bether after 5 days tell your doctor. to but him on mmeds. ty B.