Written by Dr Zamiel Hussain MBBS MRCGP, Founder and Lead GP at AccessGP
Introduction
Cold and flu season has arrived across the UK, and many patients are unsure whether to manage symptoms at home or book a GP appointment. This winter, respiratory viruses are circulating earlier and more widely, and overlapping symptoms can make it difficult to know when medical advice is needed.
As a GP, I see hundreds of winter illnesses each year. Most settle with supportive care, but there are times when a consultation is the safest and most appropriate next step.
Adults typically experience two to four colds each year. Children may have up to eight.
This guide explains how to tell the difference between a cold and flu, which symptoms are expected, and when to contact a GP.
Cold vs Flu: Understanding the Difference
Typical cold symptoms include:
- Blocked or runny nose
- Sore throat
- Sneezing
- Mild cough
- Low-grade fever or no fever
- Fatigue that improves within a few days
Colds tend to develop gradually and are uncomfortable rather than severe.
Typical flu symptoms include:
- Sudden high fever (often above 38°C)
- Chills and sweats
- Headache and eye pain
- Muscle aches and joint pain
- Loss of appetite
- Dry, persistent cough
- Marked tiredness or exhaustion
Flu comes on quickly and can make you feel very unwell for several days.
Self-Care for Most Cold and Flu Symptoms
Most viral respiratory infections do not require antibiotics. Symptoms usually improve with time and supportive measures.
Helpful home treatments:
- Paracetamol or ibuprofen for fever and aches
- Warm fluids to maintain hydration
- Honey and lemon for coughs
- Saline nasal sprays or drops for congestion
- Steam inhalation for sinus pressure
- Adequate rest and reduced activity
If symptoms affect work, a fit note can be arranged during a GP consultation once illness lasts longer than seven days.
When to Speak to a GP
You should book an appointment if you experience:
- Fever lasting longer than three days
- A cough persisting beyond two weeks
- Feeling out of breath on exertion
- Sinus pain with fever or worsening symptoms
- Symptoms that are not improving after seven to ten days
- Concerns about a child under five
- Chest discomfort, unusual palpitations or dizziness
- Worsening of asthma, COPD, diabetes or other chronic conditions
These symptoms may indicate a bacterial infection, complications such as pneumonia or an exacerbation of an existing condition.
At AccessGP, I regularly review patients with these concerns and can arrange treatment, follow-up or investigations if clinically appropriate.
Respiratory infections account for a large proportion of GP consultations during winter months.
Urgent Symptoms That Need Immediate Care
Seek urgent medical attention through 999 or A&E if you notice:
- Severe difficulty breathing
- Blue lips or face
- Sudden confusion
- Severe chest pain
- Collapse or fainting
- A non-blanching rash
- A very high fever that does not reduce
Babies under three months with a temperature above 38°C should also be assessed urgently.
Staying Well This Winter
Simple preventive steps can reduce the spread of infections and help you stay healthy:
- Wash hands frequently
- Keep indoor spaces ventilated
- Cover coughs and sneezes
- Avoid close contact if unwell
- Maintain hydration and a balanced diet
- Ensure asthma inhalers and preventers are up to date
Taking early action when symptoms start can reduce severity and speed up recovery.
Conclusion
Most colds and flu-like illnesses improve with rest, fluids and supportive care.
However, if symptoms are not settling, are worsening or you are unsure what to do next, a GP consultation can provide clarity and reassurance.
Through AccessGP, patients can book same-day online appointments for safe, personalised advice throughout the winter months.
Key sources: NHS UK – Cold and flu advice; UKHSA – Seasonal respiratory illness update 2025; NICE – Fever, cough and sore throat guidance; RCPCH – Fever in children guidance.