Difference Between Cold and Flu
You wake up with a scratchy throat, cough, runny nose, and sneezing. Just when you think it might be a cold, fever and muscle ache kick in. It’s hard to know if you have a cold or influenza (flu), especially in the colder months when both are quite prevalent. Understanding the difference between cold and flu can help you prepare for both and pick a general physician in Navi Mumbai based on what you have. To help you differentiate between the two, we’ve researched some key tips you must watch out for.
Symptoms of a Common Cold and Flu
Cold and flu share many common symptoms, but the flu shows comparatively more intense and long-lasting symptoms compared to the common cold. If it’s just a cold, the symptoms will appear gradually, while flu symptoms occur abruptly. Cold starts with a scratchy throat followed by these symptoms:
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Fatigue
- Nasal congestion
Flu has all these symptoms and some additional issues like:
- Fever
- Body ache
- Extreme fatigue
- Chills and shivers
- Headaches
- Cough
Some people, particularly children, also experience nausea and vomiting with the above symptoms.
Causes and Transmission
There are more than 200 types of viruses responsible for the common cold in children and adults. Rhinoviruses are the most common. Influenza A, B, and C viruses are responsible for flu. A and B are common. Both are transmitted through sneezing, coughing, or touching contaminated surfaces.
Diagnosis and Testing
Colds have a symptom-based diagnosis. Your doctor will ask about what you are experiencing and check your throat and nose to detect any mucus buildup. If you have flu symptoms, like fever and body aches, your doctor will check your breathing and lung function to rule out pneumonia and other lung-related complications.
In high-risk individuals, like elders, kids, and those with a compromised immune system, the doctor will order a rapid influenza diagnostic test (RIDT) or a molecular assay to get an accurate diagnosis. The tests tell the strain of the virus that’s caused the flu.
Treatment and Management
Cold and flu treatment in Navi Mumbai mainly comprises rest. Given the less severe symptoms of a cold, rest and hydration are sufficient. You can also take over-the-counter medication for throat irritation or other symptoms, although these are not usually needed.
Your symptoms will resolve on their own within 7-10 days, and you’ll be back to feeling normal. Flu, however, can be long-lasting. It usually takes a week or two to resolve completely. In some cases, antiviral medication might be prescribed to prevent complications.
Prevention Strategies
Cold and flu can be prevented with basic hygiene practices, like washing your hands, avoiding sick people, and using masks. Flu vaccination can help minimize the risk of catching flu and prepare your immune system to fight off the infection if you contract the influenza virus. Both viral illnesses show similar symptoms and are preventable with good hygiene, but the flu tends to present critical symptoms. It can get better with home remedies, but some cases require medical intervention, especially if the symptoms persist for long or are likely to lead to complications.