Respiratory Illness

    Cold & Flu
    Expert Care

    From mild sniffles to high-grade flu, Starling Clinic provides fast, accurate diagnosis and evidence-based treatment so you recover quickly and safely.

    1 billion colds per year in the US
    Flu affects 8–45M Americans annually
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    Call 903-794-7874
    UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENCE

    Cold vs Flu

    Both are contagious respiratory illnesses caused by different viruses. Knowing the difference guides the right treatment.

    Common Cold

    Over 200 different viruses (mainly rhinovirus)

    Gradual onset over 1–3 days
    Mild-to-moderate fatigue
    Runny or stuffy nose (most prominent)
    Sneezing, sore throat
    Low-grade or no fever
    Body aches are mild or absent
    Rarely causes serious complications

    Influenza (Flu)

    Influenza A or B virus

    Sudden, abrupt onset
    Severe fatigue and weakness
    High fever (100–104°F) common
    Intense muscle and body aches
    Severe headaches
    Chest discomfort, dry cough
    Can lead to pneumonia or hospitalization
    SYMPTOM SEVERITY

    How They Compare

    Side-by-side symptom intensity — so you know exactly what you're dealing with.

    Cold vs Flu SeverityColdFluFever10%92%Body Aches25%88%Fatigue40%90%Congestion88%45%Sore Throat75%40%Headache30%80%
    0–4
    Days contagious (Cold)
    Symptoms start 1–3 days after exposure
    0–7
    Days contagious (Flu)
    Contagious 1 day before symptoms appear
    0M+
    Adults with flu per season
    Up to 45M in severe seasons
    0K+
    Flu-related hospitalizations
    Annually in the United States
    TREATMENT OPTIONS

    How We Treat You

    Our approach focuses on fast relief, targeted treatment, and preventing complications.

    Rapid Flu Testing

    • In-office rapid influenza test
    • Results in 15–20 minutes
    • Determines antiviral eligibility
    • Guides targeted treatment plan
    • Rules out other infections

    Antiviral Medications

    • Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) for flu A & B
    • Most effective within first 48 hours
    • Reduces severity and duration
    • Baloxavir for single-dose option
    • Prophylaxis for high-risk contacts

    Symptom Management

    • Fever reducers and pain relievers
    • Decongestants and antihistamines
    • Cough suppressants & expectorants
    • Saline nasal irrigation guidance
    • IV fluids if dehydration is present

    Rest & Hydration Plan

    • Personalized recovery timeline
    • Fluid intake recommendations
    • Sleep and rest strategy
    • Return-to-work/school guidance
    • Follow-up if symptoms worsen

    Flu Vaccination

    • Annual flu shots available on-site
    • High-dose for 65+ patients
    • Quadrivalent formulation
    • Best protection Oct–March
    • Vaccine takes ~2 weeks to activate

    Same-Day Walk-In Care

    • No appointment required
    • Open weekdays 8AM–5PM
    • Short wait times
    • Both Texarkana & Allen locations
    • Prescription sent to your pharmacy
    WARNING SIGNS

    When to See a Doctor

    Most colds resolve on their own. But certain symptoms require prompt medical attention.

    See Us Within 24–48 Hours

    Symptoms lasting more than 10 days without improvement
    Fever above 103°F (39.4°C)
    Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
    Persistent pain or pressure in chest
    Confusion or altered mental status
    Severe or persistent vomiting
    Symptoms improve then return with fever and worsening cough

    High-Risk Groups — Seek Care Early

    These groups should contact us at the first sign of flu-like symptoms, as complications develop more quickly:

    Adults 65 and older
    Immune response weakens with age
    Children under 5
    Especially under 2 years old
    Pregnant women
    Flu can cause premature labor
    Chronic disease patients
    Diabetes, asthma, heart disease, COPD
    Immunocompromised
    HIV, cancer patients, organ recipients
    Nursing home residents
    Close quarters increase spread risk
    STAY HEALTHY

    Prevention Strategies

    Your best defense against cold and flu season is a combination of vaccination, hygiene, and healthy habits.

    Annual Flu Vaccine

    • Get vaccinated every October
    • Protects you and those around you
    • Available on-site at Starling Clinic
    • Reduced severity even if infected
    • Most important step you can take

    Hand Hygiene

    • Wash hands for 20+ seconds
    • Use hand sanitizer when soap unavailable
    • Avoid touching eyes, nose, mouth
    • Clean shared surfaces regularly
    • Carry sanitizer when traveling

    Respiratory Etiquette

    • Cover coughs and sneezes
    • Use elbow, not hands
    • Dispose of tissues immediately
    • Wear a mask if you're symptomatic
    • Stay home when you're sick

    Boost Immunity

    • 7–9 hours of quality sleep
    • Regular physical activity
    • Balanced diet rich in vitamins
    • Manage chronic stress
    • Stay hydrated daily

    Limit Exposure

    • Avoid close contact with sick people
    • Avoid crowded areas during peak season
    • Ventilate indoor spaces
    • Maintain distance when others are ill
    • Disinfect high-touch surfaces

    Early Action

    • Start antivirals within 48hrs of flu onset
    • Don't "power through" — rest early
    • Hydrate aggressively from day one
    • Monitor your temperature daily
    • Call us if symptoms worsen rapidly
    STARLING CLINIC

    Feeling Under the Weather?

    Walk in or schedule an appointment. Our team will get you tested, treated, and on the road to recovery — same day.

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