Reviewed by Anna Healthcare, GPhC-registered — 1036459
Most coughs and colds are viral and ease on their own, but a few warning signs mean you need a GP or urgent help. Have you ever lain awake wondering which one you have? In this blog, we will explain the cold or flu difference, the symptoms that need prompt attention and how Pharmacy First lets you see a pharmacist without a GP appointment.
Quick answer
A cold usually develops gradually, while flu tends to come on within hours. A cough lasting more than three weeks, blood in your phlegm or difficulty breathing needs medical attention. For sore throat, sinusitis or earache, Pharmacy First may allow you to see a pharmacist without a GP appointment.
How Can You Tell a Cold From Flu?
A cold usually comes on gradually and mainly affects your nose and throat. Flu tends to arrive quickly and can make you feel unwell all over. The NHS notes that flu tends to be more severe.
- Cold: runny nose, sneezing and sore throat, while you may still feel well enough to carry on with your usual activities.
- Flu: sudden fever, aching muscles and marked tiredness that can leave you too unwell for your normal routine.
Cold and flu symptoms overlap, so how long they last can help you tell them apart.
How Long Do Coughs, Colds and Flu Usually Last?
A cold usually starts to improve within 1 to 2 weeks, while flu should begin to ease within about a week. A cough or tiredness can linger for longer.
Ask for an urgent GP appointment or call NHS 111 if flu symptoms have not improved after seven days or if a cold has not improved after 10 days. Do the same if your symptoms are getting worse or if you are worried about your child.
When Is a Cough Something Worse?
Chest infections such as bronchitis usually clear within about three weeks. If your cough continues beyond this, or you develop other concerning symptoms, it is worth getting medical advice.
Which Symptoms Mean You Need a GP or NHS 111?
Seek urgent GP or NHS 111 advice if your cough comes with:
- A cough lasting more than three weeks.
- Blood or blood stained mucus.
- Chest pain that comes and goes or hurts when you breathe or cough.
Which Symptoms Need a 999 Call?
Call 999 or go to A&E for severe difficulty in breathing, a tight or heavy chest, sudden confusion, or lips and skin turning pale, blue or grey. For children, also call if they grunt while breathing or pull their stomach in under the ribcage.
What Can a Pharmacist Treat Without a GP?
Under Pharmacy First, a pharmacist can assess and treat seven common conditions without a GP appointment or prescription. This can be a useful option when you need treatment for one of the conditions covered by the service.
Which Winter Illnesses Can a Pharmacist Treat?
Three Pharmacy First conditions can follow a cold or flu:
- Sore throat for ages 5 and over.
- Sinusitis for ages 12 and over.
- Earache for ages 1 to 17.
The full list of Pharmacy First conditions also includes infected insect bites, impetigo, shingles and uncomplicated urinary infections in women aged 16 to 64. Pharmacists follow NICE guidance, including NG84 on sore throat, so antibiotics are reserved for those most likely to benefit.
When Should You See a Pharmacist Instead of a GP?
A pharmacist can be a useful first point of contact for mild symptoms or a condition covered by Pharmacy First. If you have any of the warning signs described earlier, you may need a GP, NHS 111 or urgent medical care instead.
Many cold remedies contain paracetamol, so tell your pharmacist about any other medicines you take. They can also advise on suitable cough medicines and flu remedies.
How Does Pharmacy First Work?
No GP referral is needed.
- Book online or visit our Carshalton, Hackbridge or Tudor branch.
- Describe your symptoms and any medicines you take during your consultation.
- Receive advice or treatment, or a GP or A&E referral if you need further care.
Get the Right Advice for Your Symptoms
Book your Pharmacy First consultation online or visit us at your nearest branch. Our pharmacists will assess your symptoms, treat what they can and point you to the right care if you need more.
From a stubborn sore throat to your child’s earache, you can be seen without the 8 am scramble for a GP slot. Prefer to talk first? Contact your nearest branch, and we will help.
Medical disclaimer: This article offers general information only and does not replace advice from a pharmacist, GP or NHS 111. If you are worried about your symptoms, seek help promptly. In an emergency, call 999.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can a pharmacist give antibiotics for a cough or cold?
Ans. Not for a typical cold or flu, because both are viral, and antibiotics will not help. Under Pharmacy First, a pharmacist can supply antibiotics where clinically appropriate for conditions such as sore throat or sinusitis, following an assessment.
Q. Do I need an appointment for Pharmacy First?
Ans. You can contact the pharmacy directly without a prescription. Booking ahead through our website is the simplest route, and referrals from your GP practice or NHS 111 are also accepted.
Q. Is Pharmacy First free?
Ans. The consultation is an NHS service. NHS prescription charges apply where you would normally pay for a medicine, and the usual exemptions apply.
Q. What can I buy for a cough or cold at the pharmacy?
Ans. Your pharmacist can recommend cough syrups and cold remedies that ease symptoms, although they will not stop a cough completely. Some cough medicines are unsuitable for children under 12, so always ask first. The NHS cough guide has more detail.
Q. Can the flu vaccine help me avoid winter illness?
Ans. It protects against flu, though not against the common cold. The NHS offers it each autumn or early winter to some adults and children at higher risk. Read our guide to flu vaccination in Carshalton.