Influenza, also commonly known as the flu, is caused by one of a number of influenza-type viruses. Flu.gov states that the flu may have symptoms that can be similar to other respiratory diseases which may include body aches, fever, headache, fatigue, coughing and sore throat, though some patients may also experience intestinal upset. As influenza is sometimes treated with antiviral medication and other flu-like diseases may be treated differently, it is important to identify which illness is present.
Common Cold
Upper respiratory infection (URI), also known as the common cold, may have some symptoms that are similar to the flu. The common cold is usually caused by one of a number of viruses including adenovirus, rhinovirus, coronavirus or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Symptoms of URI that are like the flu may include fatigue, scratchy or sore throat, coughing, and irritation of the eyes. Other symptoms may include runny nose, sneezing and nasal congestion but unlike the flu, fever is usually mild. In most patients, symptoms will subside within a week. Most patients will benefit from the use of over-the-counter medications such as nasal decongestants, antihistamines and analgesics.
Strep Throat
Strep throat, also known as bacterial pharyngitis, is an infection that may include the tonsils, throat and lower sinus passages. It is caused by Streptococcus species bacteria and has symptoms that may be like the flu including sore throat, cough, fatigue and fever. The tonsils will often become red and swollen, developing white spots or pustules on the surface. The sore throat may become severe and the voice box may be affected, resulting in hoarseness or a loss of speech. Strep throat, unlike the flu, is often treated with antibiotics to prevent spread of the infection. Some patients will also benefit from short-term use of anti-inflammatory corticosteroids such as prednisone along with over-the-counter analgesics such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
Acute Bronchitis
Bronchitis is an infection of the lower respiratory tract, most often caused by a virus but occasionally caused by bacteria. It is an inflammatory disease affecting the bronchial tree and may have some symptoms that are like the flu including fever, fatigue and cough. Lung symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing and chest tightness may occur and the coughing associated with acute bronchitis is often more severe and productive. Bronchitis often develops after a cold, and a cough may linger for several weeks. Some patients benefit from cough suppressants, anti-inflammatory steroids or bronchodilators. If a bacterial infection is thought to be the cause, antibiotics may be prescribed, though many patients will get better with only symptomatic treatment.
Pneumonia
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that may be caused by a virus or bacteria. It may have symptoms similar to the flu with symptoms of fever, fatigue, weakness and cough. It may also cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and vomiting or diarrhea. Many patients also experience chest pain, rapid heartbeat and difficulty breathing. Recovery from pneumonia often takes several weeks and requires medications such as bronchodilators, anti-fever medications and antibiotics if bacteria is thought to be the cause.
