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Cold and flu symptoms? Get online help today

Consult a doctor about cold or flu symptoms and start treatment quickly. Book a full consultation or a fast express session with a GP.

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Check circle Qualified doctors and GPs specialising in cold and flu care
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Cold and flu symptoms? Get online help today

How to book an online consultation for cold and flu symptoms

Get professional advice and treatment quickly — whether you need fast symptom relief or a full evaluation.

How to book an online consultation for cold and flu symptoms
1
Choose an express consultation with a GP for mild symptoms or book a full consultation with a doctor through the Oladoctor marketplace.
2
Fill out a short form describing your cold or flu symptoms — such as cough, fever, sore throat, or congestion.
3
Attend your online appointment at the scheduled time. Receive personalised treatment advice, prescriptions, or further care recommendations if needed.

Note: If you experience severe symptoms — such as shortness of breath, chest pain, confusion, or very high fever — seek emergency medical care immediately. Online consultations are not suitable for urgent or life-threatening conditions.

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Doctors available for cold and flu consultations

Choose a GP or physician experienced in diagnosing and treating cold and flu symptoms. Fast online booking and professional care.

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Doctor

Daniel Cichi

Family medicine 24 years exp.

Dr Daniel Cichi is a family medicine doctor with over 20 years of clinical experience. He provides online consultations for adults, supporting patients with acute symptoms, chronic conditions, and everyday health concerns that require timely medical guidance.

His background includes work in emergency care, ambulance services, and family medicine, which allows him to assess symptoms quickly, identify warning signs, and help patients choose the safest next steps – whether that means home care, treatment adjustment, or in-person evaluation.

Patients commonly consult Dr Daniel Cichi for:

  • acute symptoms: fever, infections, flu-like illness, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath;
  • chest discomfort, palpitations, dizziness, fatigue, and blood pressure concerns;
  • digestive problems: abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhoea, constipation, reflux;
  • muscle, joint, and back pain, minor injuries, post-traumatic symptoms;
  • chronic conditions: hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, thyroid disorders;
  • review and interpretation of lab tests, imaging reports, and medical documents;
  • medication review and treatment adjustment;
  • medical advice while travelling or living abroad;
  • second opinions and guidance on whether in-person care is needed.
Dr Cichi’s consultations are structured and practical. He focuses on clear explanations, risk assessment, and actionable recommendations, helping patients understand their symptoms and make informed decisions about their health.
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€55
5.0 (17)
Doctor

Anastasiia Shalko

Family medicine 13 years exp.

Dr. Anastasiia Shalko is a general practitioner with a background in both paediatrics and general medicine. She graduated from Bogomolets National Medical University in Kyiv and completed her paediatric internship at the P.L. Shupyk National Medical Academy of Postgraduate Education. After working as a paediatrician in Kyiv, she relocated to Spain, where she has been practising general medicine since 2015, providing care for both adults and children.

Her work focuses on urgent, short-term medical concerns – situations where patients need quick guidance, symptom assessment and clear next steps. She helps people understand whether their symptoms require in-person evaluation, home management or a change in treatment. Common reasons for booking an online consultation include:

  • acute respiratory symptoms (cough, sore throat, runny nose, fever)
  • viral illnesses such as colds and seasonal infections
  • gastrointestinal complaints (nausea, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, gastroenteritis)
  • sudden changes in how a child or adult feels
  • questions about existing treatment and whether adjustments are needed
  • renewal of prescriptions when clinically appropriate
Dr. Shalko works specifically with urgent and short-term problems, providing practical recommendations and helping patients determine the safest next step. She explains symptoms clearly, guides patients through decision-making and offers straightforward medical advice for everyday acute issues.

She does not provide long-term management of chronic conditions, ongoing follow-up or comprehensive care plans for complex long-term illnesses. Her consultations are designed for acute symptoms, sudden concerns and situations where timely medical input is important.

With clinical experience in both paediatrics and general medicine, Dr. Shalko confidently supports adults and children. Her communication style is clear, simple and reassuring, helping patients feel informed and supported throughout the consultation.

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€50
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Understanding cold and flu: symptoms, treatment, and when to seek help

Learn how to differentiate between a cold and flu, manage symptoms effectively at home, and recognise signs that require medical attention.

Cold and flu: what’s the difference?

Cold and flu: what’s the difference?

Colds and flu are both viral respiratory illnesses but are caused by different viruses. Colds tend to develop gradually with symptoms like a runny nose, sore throat, and mild fatigue. Flu symptoms, however, appear suddenly and are usually more severe — including high fever, body aches, chills, and profound weakness.

Recognising the difference early helps you choose the right care path. While colds are often self-limiting and mild, flu can sometimes lead to serious complications, especially in vulnerable groups like older adults or people with chronic conditions.

Both colds and flu are more common during the colder months, typically from late autumn to early spring. Flu season usually peaks between December and February, while colds can circulate year-round but are also more frequent during the same period. Understanding these seasonal patterns helps in early identification and prevention.

Understanding these distinctions is key to managing expectations and knowing when to monitor symptoms more closely.

Common symptoms of cold and flu

Common symptoms of cold and flu

Typical cold symptoms include nasal congestion, sneezing, sore throat, mild cough, and slight tiredness. Fever is rare with a cold. Symptoms usually peak within 2–3 days and resolve on their own within a week.

Flu symptoms are more intense. High fever, dry cough, severe muscle aches, chills, sweating, and profound fatigue are common. Some patients also experience headaches, sore eyes, and gastrointestinal upset. Recovery from the flu may take up to two weeks or longer in some cases.

Tracking the onset and severity of symptoms helps in distinguishing between the two illnesses and determining whether medical advice is needed.

Home treatment and symptom management

Home treatment and symptom management

Most cases of cold and flu can be managed at home with supportive care. Rest is crucial to allow the body to fight the infection. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, use saline nasal sprays for congestion, and consider over-the-counter medications like paracetamol or ibuprofen to manage fever and body aches.

For sore throat relief, warm salt water gargles, lozenges, and humidifiers may help. Maintaining good nutrition supports immune function during recovery.

However, if symptoms worsen or do not improve after a few days, especially in cases of high fever or breathing difficulties, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional.

When to seek medical attention

When to seek medical attention

Seek medical advice if you experience shortness of breath, chest pain, confusion, persistent high fever, or dehydration symptoms. These could indicate complications such as pneumonia or secondary bacterial infections, which require prompt medical treatment.

High-risk groups, including young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with chronic illnesses like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease, should be particularly vigilant.

Early medical intervention helps prevent complications and ensures faster recovery when symptoms move beyond the mild or moderate range.

Preventing cold and flu

Preventing cold and flu

Good hygiene practices are essential for preventing the spread of cold and flu viruses. Wash hands frequently with soap and water, avoid close contact with sick individuals, and cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing.

Seasonal flu vaccination significantly reduces the risk of severe flu infection. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle — including adequate sleep, balanced nutrition, and stress management — strengthens the immune system and helps the body resist infections.

Taking preventive steps not only protects you but also helps safeguard those around you, especially vulnerable populations.

Patients love

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5.0
Solicité una receta exprés y todo el proceso fue rápido, sencillo y eficiente. La atención fue profesional y me sentí bien atendida en todo momento. Sin duda volveré a usar el servicio cuando lo necesite. ¡Gracias!
Estela Moran
Estela Moran
GB
5.0
Very fast and I received the medicines at a cheapest price ever. Never ever in my life I had it at such a cheap price. I even didn't know that I will get such a discount with prescription.
Anastasiia
Anastasiia
PT
5.0
I had a consultation and a prescription I needed the same day I requested the service – very smooth and pleasant experience.
Kateryna Koidan
Kateryna Koidan
PT
5.0
Easy and convenient. Was traveling in Spain as a tourist and got help and a prescription in a couple of hours. Strongly recommended
Jonathan
Jonathan
PT
5.0
Amazing service. Forgot to bring my antibiotics to Portugal and sent my diagnosis from my GP app. Had a prescription sent to my phone in Portugal within 15 minutes. Only cost €19. I would give more than 5 stars if I could.
debra durrington
debra durrington
GB
5.0
I had a problem with my skin and anxiety. I scheduled an appointment for the same day. I got a great consultation, I got all the recommendations I needed and all the help and even more. Thank you!
Anton Razvodov
Anton Razvodov
ES
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Your guide to healthcare in Spain

Practical information about the healthcare system, doctors and medical services in Spain.

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FAQ

Common questions about booking cold and flu consultations through Oladoctor.

How can I book an online consultation for cold or flu symptoms?
You can book a consultation through the Oladoctor marketplace by choosing either a full appointment with a certified doctor or an express consultation with a licensed general practitioner. Select the service that matches your needs, pick a time slot, and complete a short intake form describing your symptoms.
What is the difference between an express consultation and a full consultation?
An express consultation is a fast, structured 15-minute session with a licensed GP, ideal for mild cold or flu symptoms when you need quick medical advice or a basic treatment plan.

A full consultation with a certified doctor offers more time for in-depth assessment, complex cases, or when multiple symptoms or chronic conditions need to be considered.

Both options provide professional care, and your choice depends on the complexity of your symptoms.

Can I get a prescription for cold or flu symptoms after the consultation?
Yes, if medically appropriate. After reviewing your symptoms, the doctor may prescribe medication such as antipyretics, nasal sprays, or cough suppressants. Prescriptions are issued according to local medical regulations and are sent to your account and email.
How quickly can I get an appointment for cold or flu symptoms?
Many doctors offer same-day or next-day appointments on Oladoctor. If you need faster access, express consultations usually have earlier availability. You can see available times when booking.
What if my symptoms are severe or getting worse?
If you experience severe symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, confusion, or very high fever, seek emergency medical care immediately. Online consultations are suitable for non-urgent cold and flu symptoms.
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