Cold, Flu and Virus Symptoms

Cold, flu and other respiratory viruses

Colds, influenza and other respiratory infections can share symptoms. Chiropractic adjustments have not been shown to treat these infections or boost immunity against them. Rest, fluids and appropriate medical advice are more useful starting points.

Cold versus flu: what is the difference?

Colds often cause a runny or stuffy nose and sneezing. Flu often begins more suddenly with fatigue, cough, body aches and sometimes fever. Symptoms overlap with COVID-19 and other illnesses, so symptoms alone may not identify the virus.

Who needs early medical advice?

Young children, older adults, pregnant people and people with certain chronic conditions or weakened immune systems have higher risk of flu complications. Contact a medical clinician promptly about flu-like symptoms; antiviral treatment is time-sensitive and may be recommended before test results are available.

Viral and bacterial infections

Viruses and bacteria are different types of microbes. Antibiotics do not treat colds or influenza. Some illnesses, including pneumonia and ear infections, can have viral or bacterial causes and need a clinician’s assessment.

Use antibiotics only when prescribed for a bacterial infection, and take them as directed. Avoiding unnecessary antibiotics helps reduce side effects and antibiotic resistance.

Relieving symptoms safely

Rest, fluids and age-appropriate medicines may help symptoms. Ask a pharmacist or medical clinician about medicine interactions and dosing. Do not give aspirin to a child or teenager with a viral illness, and avoid adult cold remedies for children.

The immune system and chiropractic

The lymphatic and nervous systems interact with other parts of the body. An anatomical connection does not prove that spinal adjustments improve immune defenses or shorten infection.

A systematic review found no clinical evidence establishing that spinal manipulation improves immune function or prevents infectious disease.

Follow current vaccination and respiratory-infection prevention guidance, including hand hygiene and staying away from others when ill. Chiropractic care should not delay testing or medical treatment when indicated.

Seek emergency care for difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, confusion, inability to stay awake or signs of severe dehydration. In children, severe breathing difficulty, bluish lips or face, or difficulty waking requires emergency care; call 911. Poor fluid intake or less severe breathing changes still need prompt medical assessment.

If you are unwell before a chiropractic visit, contact the office to discuss postponing. For infection treatment, contact your medical clinician.

Further reading: CDC flu symptoms and warning signs.

Further reading: Systematic review of spinal manipulation and immune outcomes.