Cold & Flu

Upper respiratory viruses like the cold and flu cause congestion, fever, and coughing. Prompt treatment can relieve these discomforts and help you recover sooner. At JST 24-hour Telemedicine Services, LLC, doctor of nursing practice and certified nurse practitioner Jeri Thomas, DNP, NP-C, specializes in treating colds and flu. After a telehealth appointment, she makes personalized treatment recommendations to help you feel better. Serving patients in and around Cheshire, Ohio, call JST 24-hour Telemedicine Services, LLC, today to schedule cold and flu treatment or book your visit online.

Are the cold and flu the same?

Although the cold and flu are both upper respiratory infections, they aren’t the same.

Common cold

The common cold is a viral infection that attacks the nose and throat. It typically lasts a week and often improves with at-home measures, such as rest, drinking plenty of fluids, and taking over-the-counter (OTC) medication.

Flu

The flu is a more severe viral infection that attacks the upper respiratory system. Like a cold, it’s often mild, but it can be life-threatening without treatment. Getting an annual flu shot is an easy and effective way to reduce your risk of the flu.

Do the cold and flu present symptoms?

Colds and the flu present similar symptoms, including:

• Headache
• Dry cough
• Shortness of breath
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sore throat
• Low-grade fever
• Body aches

Sometimes, the flu causes gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea. 

When should I schedule a telemedicine appointment for the cold and flu?

If you have had cold or flu symptoms for more than 48 hours, make a telehealth appointment at JST 24-hour Telemedicine Services, LLC. This is particularly true if you have a fever that won’t break or severe upper respiratory symptoms.

How are colds and the flu diagnosed?

Via telehealth, your JST-24-hour Telemedicine Services, LLC, Dr. Thomas reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms, including when they started, if they’re getting worse, and if they respond to over-the-counter medications.

Next, she completes a telehealth exam. Dr. Thomas might ask you to cough or have you point your web camera at your mouth so they can check your throat for redness and inflammation. She might also have you visit a nearby lab or clinic for additional tests, like a throat or nasal swab. 

How are colds and the flu treated?

At JST 24-hour Telemedicine Services, LLC, Dr. Thomas treats colds and the flu using a conservative, patient-centered approach. She could suggest:

• Prescription antiviral medications, like Tamiflu®
• Drinking plenty of fluids, including electrolyte beverages
• Getting plenty of rest
• Taking over-the-counter decongestants and pain relievers
• Using saline or nasal rinses
• Using a humidifier for a cough

Most people benefit from several treatments and recover within 7-10 days. However, if your symptoms continue or worsen, contact Dr. Thomas. She can reevaluate your care plan and make adjustments as needed. 

Call JST 24-hour Telemedicine Services, LLC, today to schedule telehealth treatment for the cold or flu, or book your appointment online.