| Symptoms | Cold | Flu | Seasonal Allergy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fever | Rare | Usual, high (100-102 °F), sometimes higher, especially in young children); lasts 3-4 days | Never |
| Headache | Uncommon | Common | Uncommon |
| General Aches, Pains | Slight | Usual; often severe | Never |
| Fatigue, Weakness | Sometimes | Usual, can last up to 3 weeks | Sometimes |
| Extreme Exhaustion | Never | Usual, at the beginning of the illness | Never |
| Stuffy, Runny Nose | Common | Sometimes | Common |
| Sneezing | Usual | Sometimes | Usual |
| Sore Throat | Common | Sometimes | Sometimes |
| Cough | Common | Common, can become severe | Sometimes |
| Chest Discomfort | Mild to moderate | Common | Rare, except for those with allergic asthma |
| Treatment | Get plenty of rest. Stay hydrated. (Drink plenty of fluids.) Decongestants. Aspirin (ages 18 and up), acetaminophen, or ibuprofen for aches and pains |
Get plenty of rest. Stay hydrated. Aspirin (ages 18 and up), acetaminophen, or ibuprofen for aches, pains, and fever Antiviral medicines (see your doctor) |
Avoid allergens (things that you’re allergic to) Antihistamines Nasal steroids Decongestants |
| Prevention | Wash your hands often. Avoid close contact with anyone who has a cold. |
Get the flu vaccine each year. Wash your hands often. Avoid close contact with anyone who has the flu. |
Avoid allergens, such as pollen, house dust mites, mold, pet dander, cockroaches. |
