Respiratory infections: Understanding the difference

January 22, 12:10 PMDetroit Disease Prevention ExaminerLisa Robertson

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Many people know when a cold is coming on and the people of Detroit are no different. However many are a bit sketchy on the difference in symptoms of the common cold, flu, and pneumonia. Colds generally leave within 4-14 days with mild body aches being the last to go.  With the flu most symptoms have gone within 3-4 days however the cough can last longer than 2 weeks.

Below are some symptoms to look for, most respiratory infections can be treated at home:

Cold:

Sore Throat
Runny Nose
Body Aches
Low Grade Fever [Below 101 degrees]

Flu:

Runny nose
Cough
High Fever [Over 101]
Chills
Extreme Fatigue

Pneumonia:

If you have symptoms of pneumonia chances are you are feeling really bad. You should see a physician right away. Though similar to the cold and flu, pneumonia can be life threatening.  Seeing a physician right away is important.

Runny nose
Severe body aches
High Fever [Over 101]
Cough [ with phlegm]
Discolored phlegm bloody, or brown
Sore throat
Headaches

If you are interested in finding out more about respiratory infections check out-

“Breathe Easy” : A Guide to Respiratory Infections-
Airing on CBS channel 62
 January 24th at 12:00 pm.

It’s a guide to managing respiratory infection.