DR. WALLACE: My problem is that both parents try to get me to agree with their side of the argument. I will admit that my dad is right about two-thirds of the time, but I love both of my parents so I don't want one of them mad at me if I agree with the other one. Being in this position makes me very uncomfortable. When they argue, I've suggested that they compromise, but they won't. What should I do? - Nameless, Galesburg, Ill.

NAMELESS: When the "heated debate" starts, make yourself scarce. Leave the house as soon as possible or go to your room and close the door. You are 100% correct. Never enter into the discussion and never take sides. It would be a no-win situation for you.

I HAVE NO ANSWERS TO YOUR QUESTION, BUT...

DR. WALLACE: I know this is not too intelligent of a question, but I sure would like to know the answer. What is the difference between a cold and the flu, and what are the symptoms of each? I'd also like to know any other difference between the two. Also, why can a person get a flu shot to combat catching the flu, and yet no shots are available to ward off a cold? — Samantha, Lake Charles, La.

SAMANTHA: You ask very intelligent questions and I have no answers for most of them. But I did contact the Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta, which sent me plenty of information on colds and flues.

Colds are caused by five groups of viruses and there could be dozens of strains within each group. That is the reason researchers can't discover a vaccine to keep you from catching a cold. Colds are transmitted by direct contact. It is extremely important to wash your hands after touching someone who has a cold or anything a cold sufferer has touched. It is also imperative to keep your hands away from your eyes and nose. Cold symptoms develop one to three days after touching someone who has a cold, or anything a cold sufferer has touched. It is also imperative to keep your hands away from your eyes and nose. Cold symptoms develop one to three days after the virus enters the body and the cold lasts about a week. Symptoms include runny or stuffed-up nose, sneezing, cough, and scratchy throat.

Flu is caused by a type A, B or C virus. By watching carefully what strains emerge in other parts of the world, scientists can predict which types and subtypes will predominate here each year, then concoct a vaccine accordingly. That's why a flu shot can be effective. The flu viruses spread through the air, most often when a flu victim speaks, coughs or sneezes. Flu symptoms usually come on quickly and can last a week or more. Symptoms include chills, fever of 101 degrees or higher, aching muscles, headache, sore throat and cough.

The better physical condition a person is in, the less the chance of catching either a cold or flu. But once a person gets the bug, nothing but time will get rid of it. Many over-the-counter and prescription drugs can make you feel better, but at best they'll only shorten your period of misery. They will not "cure" the illness.

WHAT CAN I DO TO HELP MY BEST FRIEND?

DR. WALLACE: My very best friend's father died a few days ago. I know she's devastated because she was always "Daddy's little girl". I'd like to let her know that I'll do anything I can to help her, but I don't want to sound pushy. What can I do to help? - Carley, Santa Fe, New Mexico.

CARLEY: Send your friend an appropriate sympathy card right away. Tell her you care for her very much and that you will always be available if she needs help. Sign it, "Your best friend, Carley."

Your friend is very fortunate to have a good friend like you.

Dr. Robert Wallace welcomes questions from readers. Although he is unable to reply to all of them individually, he will answer as many as possible in this column. E-mail him at rwallace@thegreatestgift.com. To find out more about Dr. Robert Wallace and read features by other Creator's Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.