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Feeling sick? Having a flu? That familiar tickle in your throat, the runny nose that triggers a series of sneezes, and the disheartening realization of falling ill can be too stressful to deal with. You shouldn’t wait to see how serious your cold or flu symptoms will grow at this early stage.

Fever, headache, cough, congestion, sore throat, body pains, chills, and/or fatigue are early indicators of the flu and a cold. You might be able to stop the virus from spreading or getting worse if you take care of your symptoms as soon as possible.

The initial 24 hours are crucial. Make an appointment for treatment at an urgent care center if your symptoms do not go away or if you suspect that you may have the flu or RSV.

What Are RSV and COVID-19 Symptoms?

Coughing, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fainting, fever, chills, sore throat, muscle discomfort, and exhaustion are some of the symptoms of COVID-19.

Adult RSV symptoms are comparable. Coughing, congestion, sore throat, fever, exhaustion, and appetite loss are all possible. It can be severe in infants and those over 60, but most people recover in two weeks.

If you suspect RSV or COVID, speak with a health care provider right away to learn how to begin feeling better. Many people are eligible for COVID therapy, such paxlovid, which can fasten the healing process.

Here are some things you need to do right now if you are feeling cold or sick:

1) Avoid Excessive Exertion

Running a few miles or staying up late working on a major project is not the best course of action when you’re feeling ill. It’s your opportunity to relax, heal, and let your body to heal. At this stage, pushing yourself too far could deplete the energy your body needs to recover, which could lengthen the recovery period.

2) Over-the-Counter Drugs May Be Beneficial

Painkillers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be used to treat early symptoms like fever, headache, body aches, and nasal pain. Make sure you thoroughly read the label and adhere to the dosing guidelines. While taking too much medication might be harmful, taking too little can have no effect.

Keep in mind that children’s dosages differ according to their weight and age, and aspirin shouldn’t be administered to anyone younger than 18 years old. It may result in Reye’s Syndrome, a dangerous illness.

3) Stay Protected from Cold Environment

It’s a fact that if you don’t bundle up when it’s chilly outside, you’ll become sick, but it’s true that viruses and bacteria prefer colder temperatures. Therefore, it’s better to stay dry and warm when battling a seasonal flu or infection.

4) Make Time for Sleep

To give your body a chance to heal, you should get as much sleep as you can during the first 24 hours of an illness. Avoid staying up late to catch up on emails or binge-watching your favorite shows and straightaway tuck into your bed to take rest.

5) Drink Plenty of Fluids

One of the best things you can do for your body during this time of immune system preparation is to stay hydrated. The finest beverages are water, decaffeinated tea, sports drinks, and sugar-free beverages. They can aid in combating fever-related dehydration. Additionally, coughing, sore throats, and congestion can be relieved by drinking hot tea or water with lemon and honey.

What Should You Do If Your Flu or Cold Symptoms Don’t Go Away in a Day?

You might wish to see a doctor if, after a day, your flu or cold symptoms don’t get better. Although your cough, sore throat, and fever may seem similar, each ailment requires a different course of therapy, and it can be difficult to distinguish between them. See an online physician to assist in diagnosing and prescribing a treatment plan.

When it comes to the flu, it’s critical to take action quickly because beginning antiviral medication within the first 48 hours can result in a shorter and milder illness. You may avoid waiting and see a doctor right away via video from your computer, tablet, or smartphone with MD Chronic’s online physician platform. Don’t hesitate to discuss your symptoms for proper diagnosis and also take protective measures to make sure your loved ones get this communicable flu or infection too. You can recover more quickly and prevent the virus from infecting others if you receive treatment early. Schedule an online appointment today.