It starts as a little tickle in your throat, some congestion or even sore muscles. At this point, you’re probably wondering if you’re getting sick, and with what.

As the cooler weather approaches, so does the dreaded respiratory virus season. Researchers believe respiratory viruses, such as the common cold, COVID-19 and flu, increase during the colder months because a person’s immunity isn’t functioning as well.

Many symptoms of these viruses can overlap, making it difficult to determine exactly which illness you have – and when to see a doctor.

According to Dr. Jack Sutcliffe, a family medicine physician with Tidelands Health Family Medicine at Pawleys Island, the timeline of symptoms may offer some insights.

“A cold typically starts gradually,” Dr. Sutcliffe says. “You may feel a bit under the weather, but you’ll generally be able to go about your day. As for the flu or COVID-19, symptoms tend to come on much more suddenly.”

The common cold usually produces milder symptoms, including:

• Sneezing
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sore throat
• Cough

Rarely do people experience headaches, fever or chills from a cold.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, both COVID-19 and flu can produce varying degrees of symptoms, ranging from none to severe. Common symptoms of both viruses include:

• Fever or feeling feverish/having chills
• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fatigue
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle aches
• Headache
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

The best way to determine which illness you have, and the most appropriate treatment, is to simply get tested, Dr. Sutcliffe says.

“Each variant of COVID-19 comes with different symptoms. Now we’re seeing patients present more with sore throat, congestion and sinus pain,” Dr. Sutcliffe says. “But a sore throat can also indicate you have the flu, a general cold or strep throat. The only way to know for sure is to get tested.”

Dr. Sutcliffe says there are certain red flags you shouldn’t ignore. Seek medical care immediately if you have:

• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Chest pain or pressure
• Confusion
• Bluish lips or face

“Anyone with underlying health conditions like asthma, heart disease or diabetes should be especially cautious and consult with a health care provider early if symptoms worsen,” Dr. Sutcliffe says.

For most people, colds and mild cases of the flu or COVID-19 can be managed with rest, hydration and over-the-counter medications. But before taking any new medications or supplements, check with your care provider.