Cold, flu, or COVID? When to come in for a sick visit

Sick season has arrived in Portland, Corpus Christi, and across the Coastal Bend. A scratchy throat, a cough, and a stuffy nose could mean a cold, the flu, or COVID-19, and for the first day or two they can feel almost identical. Knowing which one you're dealing with tells you whether to rest at home or get checked.

Cold, flu, or COVID?

A cold creeps in slowly: a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, a sore throat, maybe a mild cough. Adults rarely run a fever, and most people bounce back within a week.

The flu hits hard and fast. People often feel fine at breakfast and awful by afternoon, with fever, chills, body aches, a headache, deep exhaustion, and usually a dry cough.

COVID-19 can look like either one. Fever, cough, sore throat, congestion, and fatigue are all common, and some people lose their sense of taste or smell. It can stay mild or get worse over several days.

Because the symptoms overlap so much, you can't reliably tell them apart on your own. A quick test can.

Why it pays to come in early

If your provider thinks you need it, we can test for flu, COVID-19, RSV, and strep right here in the office.

With flu and COVID, timing matters. Antivirals like Tamiflu for flu and Paxlovid for COVID work best when they're started early: generally within the first couple of days of flu symptoms, and within five days for COVID. If your provider thinks one is right for you, coming in sooner gives it the best chance to work.

It's especially worth a visit if you:

• Have had a fever for more than two or three days
• Started feeling better, then got worse
• Have a sore throat and fever but no cough, which can point to strep
• Have ear pain, sinus pain, or a cough that won't quit
• Are 65 or older, pregnant, or living with diabetes, asthma, COPD, or heart disease, since flu and COVID are more likely to cause complications

When to call 911

Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room right away if you or someone you're caring for has:

• Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
• Pain or pressure in the chest
• New confusion, or trouble waking up or staying awake
• Bluish, gray, or pale lips or skin
• Signs of severe dehydration, such as not urinating
• A seizure

Feeling better at home

For a mild cold, rest and fluids do most of the work. Drink plenty of water, use a humidifier or a warm shower to loosen congestion, and stay home while you have a fever so you don't spread it. Wash your hands often and cover coughs and sneezes. Not sure an over-the-counter medicine is safe with your prescriptions? Ask a pharmacist, or give us a call.

We're here when you're sick

You don't need an appointment. Walk in Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 7 PM, at 125 Northshore Blvd in Portland, or call (361) 208-6701 first and we'll tell you what to expect. Same-day visits are often available. We serve Portland, Corpus Christi, and surrounding areas. Read more about our sick visits, see our FAQ, or become a patient now so we're ready next time.