Influenza Diagnosis
Proper diagnosis is essential for early and appropriate treatment
The common cold and influenza are 2 distinct illnesses with distinct symptoms — recognize the signs and symptoms when they present.
Recognizing Influenza Symptoms
| Signs and Symptoms | Influenza | Cold |
|---|---|---|
| Symptom onset | Abrupt | Gradual |
| Fever | Usual; lasts 3-4 days | Rare |
| Aches | Usual; often severe | Slight |
| Chills | Fairly common | Uncommon |
| Fatigue, weakness | Usual | Sometimes |
| Sneezing | Sometimes | Common |
| Stuffy nose | Sometimes | Common |
| Sore throat | Sometimes | Common |
| Chest discomfort, cough | Common; can be severe | Mild to moderate; hacking cough |
| Headache | Common | Rare |
This influenza season, encourage your patients to come at the onset of symptoms
- Only 41% of adults visited a healthcare professional during the 2009–2010 influenza season.
- According to the CDC, there is no proven benefit in the use of herbal or homeopathic remedies against influenza.
- If taken within 48 hours of symptom onset, antiviral therapy may:
- Reduce the severity of illness.
- Shorten the duration of illness.
- Prevent serious influenza complications.
- Next topic: Treatment & prevention
