When you wake up with a stuffed nose and a scratchy throat, it is hard to know what is wrong. Is it a simple common cold, the flu, or seasonal allergies? At Gadh Family Practice in Plantation, Florida, Dr. Rundeep Gadh and Dr. Ruchika Gadh help families navigate these overlapping symptoms. 

Understanding your symptoms is the first step toward feeling better. Our primary care team provides personalized evaluations to get you the right relief. We serve people from Plantation and surrounding South Florida communities, including Davie and Fort Lauderdale. 

How do symptoms differ between a cold, the flu, and allergies? 

Colds, flu, and allergies can cause overlapping symptoms, but the timing and type of symptoms can offer useful clues. Allergies usually do not cause fever, while fever and body aches suggest a respiratory infection such as a cold or the flu.

Allergies often cause itchy, watery eyes and repeated sneezing. A cold develops gradually over a few days. In contrast, flu symptoms begin abruptly. If you’re unsure, our team can evaluate you and recommend testing when appropriate.

When should you see a doctor for your symptoms?

Most mild viral infections resolve on their own with rest and fluids. However, you should watch for a pattern called "double worsening," when symptoms begin to improve and then get worse again. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that a new or worsening fever, daytime cough, or nasal discharge after initial improvement from a viral respiratory infection can signal acute bacterial sinusitis. This pattern often points to a secondary bacterial infection, such as a sinus infection.

With the flu, timing is critical. Flu antivirals work best when started early. The CDC recommends prompt treatment for people at higher risk of complications or with severe or progressive illness. For otherwise healthy outpatients, antiviral treatment may also be considered if it can begin within two days of symptom onset.

If you think you may have the flu, especially if you are at higher risk for complications, contact us early to discuss whether treatment is appropriate. 

How we help you find relief at Gadh Family Practice 

We provide allergy treatment and testing to help identify possible triggers. Our on-site laboratory also makes it more convenient to complete certain tests as needed. Your evaluation helps us recommend treatment based on the likely cause of your symptoms.

Whether you need help managing seasonal symptoms or require a physical exam to check your overall health, we are here for you. We focus on preventive medicine to keep your whole family healthy year-round.

However, you should always seek prompt medical care for symptoms such as trouble breathing, chest pain, severe dehydration, confusion, or symptoms that are rapidly worsening. 

Do not spend days guessing why you feel unwell. If you are struggling with persistent symptoms, schedule a visit with our family medicine team today.