Cold or Flu?

There seems to be a blurred line between the common cold and the flu, but it's important to know the difference. Similar symptoms tend to be more severe along with other negative effects when you have the flu. A cold is a milder respiratory illness that can make you feel bad for a few days, while the flu can make you feel quite ill for a few days to weeks. The flu can also yield more serious health problems down the road such as pneumonia and hospitalizations.

How to treat a Cold

You're contagious the first two or three days of your cold, so make sure to stay home and rest up. Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated as your immune system uses up a lot of water to battle cold symptoms.

Since colds are caused by a viral infection, antibiotics will not help in treating your cold. Over-the-counter medications are eligible expenses with your Flexible Spending Account. For example, anti-histamines, decongestants, and acetaminophen can help relieve congestion, aches, and other cold symptoms.

Some people also take supplements like zinc, vitamin C, or echinacea but studies haven't confirmed whether these remedies help speed up the recovery process or alleviate symptoms. Colds usually clear up within a few days, but see a doctor if your cold hasn't improved in about a week or if you develop persistent fevers. Potential reasons could be that you have allergies, a bacterial infection, asthma, or bronchitis.

Is your little one sick at home? You can shop for specific products for kids, whether it's thermometers, nasal aspirators or even hot/cold therapy stuffed animals.

Shop for Cold Products