What Are Colds and Flu?
A cold or the flu can knock you off your feet, leaving you feeling weak and tired. UMG Urgent Care provides effective treatment for common cold and flu symptoms so you can get back to your regular routine sooner. The difference between cold and flu is mainly the type of virus that causes each and how serious the symptoms are. Colds are typically caused by rhinoviruses while the flu is caused by influenza viruses. Cold symptoms often come on slowly, starting with a sore throat, nasal congestion, and sneezing. The symptoms of the flu tend to appear suddenly and are usually more severe, including high fever and body aches. Cold symptoms can be bothersome, but the flu can make you feel truly awful and can lead to serious health issues, like pneumonia, especially for people with weakened immune systems. It is important to take steps to avoid close contact with those who are sick to prevent the spread of these viral infections. Visit our caring team in Columbia, MD for quality care.
How Are Colds and Flu Treated?
At UMG Urgent Care, we assess your symptoms, determine if you need prescription medication, and provide specific care to help ease your discomfort. If you're unsure whether it's a cold or the flu, our medical professionals can provide quick testing and accurate advice. Most colds go away on their own in about 7 – 10 days. Getting plenty of rest, drinking lots of fluids, and taking over-the-counter cold and flu medication can help relieve common cold symptoms, like congestion, coughs, or sneezes. Treatment for the common cold and flu includes a variety of options, such as pain relievers, decongestants, cough syrups, and antiviral drugs. For mild cases of the flu, treatments include resting and drinking lots of fluids, but antiviral medications (like Tamiflu®) may help reduce the length of illness if taken early. The flu can last from a few days to two weeks, depending on how your body fights the virus. Severe symptoms tend to improve within a week, but fatigue can sometimes continue for several weeks. Cold and flu season generally runs from the late fall through early spring. With so many types of colds and flu viruses around, practicing good hygiene — like washing your hands often — helps reduce your chances of getting sick. Additionally, getting a flu shot can help protect against the most common strains of the flu virus each year.
What Are the Benefits of Colds and Flu Treatment?
Receiving prompt cold and flu treatment at UMG Urgent Care in Columbia, MD can greatly impact how long flu and colds last and how severe your symptoms are. Getting prompt medical care is especially important for those who are more vulnerable, like young children, elderly adults, and people with underlying health problems. Proper care for these common illnesses can result in:
- Shorter illness duration
- Reduced symptom severity
- Prevention of complications, such as secondary bacterial infections
- Faster recovery, allowing you to return to your daily activities
- Peace of mind, knowing you are taking the right steps for your health
UMG Urgent Care Reviews
Omg we had the best experience at UMG Urgent Care! Stephanie and her team got us in ASAP, and I was honestly impressed with HOW nice and clean it was. I loved how inviting the space was, clearly all brand new and updated, it just felt so refreshing! The check in and wait time was super fast & easy, and we were seen right away! And I was able to call back with any questions I had.
I've used UMG Urgent Care twice now - once for a Sports/School Physical for my children and once for a pre-op clearance visit. The entire process was so smooth and seamless.I was seen on time and I was able to get an appointment fairly quickly.The staff was always welcoming and pleasant - something that is super rare for an Urgent Care or medical office in general.Stephanie is absolutely amazing. She is knowledgeable, efficient and has great bedside manner.I'll be using UMG for all our primary care needs moving forward. I'd highly recommend skipping the ER or the big chains like Patient First unless you want to wait hours to be treated inhumanely.I wish all medical offices could be this organized and professional!
We had an excellent experience at this Urgent Care - the front desk person and the doctor we saw were both so kind and accommodating, and took the time to explain important information. We were able to get a last minute appointment, and once we arrived, we were taken back quickly. Our entire experience was 30 minutes, in and out. It was wonderful and we will absolutely be back!!
Excellent customer service and care! Patient, understanding and clear communicator! Thank you Stephanie!
My telehealth visit went great! The process of setting up an appointment was simple, and I easily found a day and time that worked for me. The provider was very attentive to my symptoms and made sure my medication was promptly sent to the pharmacy. I really appreciated how responsive and efficient the whole experience was.
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Recover with Manageable Symptoms
Knowing the difference between cold and flu helps you get the right cold and flu treatments for faster recovery. The goal of treatment is to reduce the impact of symptoms, allowing your body to recover without added complications. At UMG Urgent Care, we provide care that can help shorten the time you're sick and make the symptoms more manageable. If you or your loved ones are dealing with cold and flu symptoms, come to UMG Urgent Care in Columbia, MD. Our team can provide quick and effective care to help you feel better.