Objectives:

After studying this module, you will be able to:
• Have an understanding of colds and flu and their signs and symptoms
• Be able to offer lifestyle advice for managing colds and flu and helping sufferers to reduce the chances of catching the virus 
• Be knowledgeable about the role of OTC products in treating the symptoms of colds and flu

 

What are Colds and Flu?

Symptoms
Cold and flu are perhaps the most common illnesses you will be asked about in the pharmacy. In fact, the average adult will suffer from two to five colds every year, and the average child will experience between seven and ten.[1]
The main symptoms of colds and flu include the following:

• Sore throat - A scratchy, dry throat is often the first symptom of a cold
• Congestion/blocked nose - The inflammation caused by a cold or flu virus can increase blood flow in the nose, leading to swollen veins which in turn causes congestion
• Sneezing - Or a runny nose
• Coughs - This is the body’s attempt to clear an infection or irritation from its airways. There are two basic types of cough:
- Dry, tickly or non-productive coughs - This type of cough is related to infection of the upper airways and is often caused by mucus from the back of the nose trickling into the throat - known as post nasal drip syndrome
- Chesty or productive cough - A cough where phlegm is produced is caused by an inflammation of the lower airways. Sometimes a chesty cough will also be dry, particularly if there are symptoms such as a runny or blocked nose
• Aches and pains - Throughout the body, including headaches
• High temperature
• Decreased energy levels.

<PRACTICE POINT>
How do customers describe their symptoms of a cold?

Is it a cold or flu?
It can be difficult for patients to distinguish between a cold and flu, because a severe cold can have similar symptoms to a bout of flu. This is why doctors will often talk about ‘flu-like illness’. However, there are certain differences which can help to separate the two conditions. Firstly, flu usually develops quickly with a sudden onset of fever, a cough and headache. It can also take up to two weeks for patients to recover. A cold on the other hand appears more gradually, with symptoms such as a runny or blocked nose, sore throat, and usually no fever. These symptoms tend to last no longer than a week.

<PRACTICE POINT>
Discuss with your colleagues the different symptoms of a cold and of flu.