How can I differentiate between a cold, flu, and itchy throat?
Many people have a gradual onset of less severe symptoms over a few days when they get a cold. Treatment with over-the-counter medications is usually successful, and the illness lasts for about a week at most. However, flu symptoms tend to appear more quickly and be more severe. More intensive medical treatment is often required when dealing with a flu infection that lasts for two weeks or more. An itchy throat is usually due to allergies, although viruses like the common cold or influenza may also be to blame.
