Common Cold vs Flu: Apart from these questions, a throat condition, sniffing, or frequent sneezing urges one to wonder whether they have a common cold or flu. This has been caused by two viruses that have infected the respiratory system and is most probably due to the severity of symptoms or the treatment that is being sought after. Knowing the differences helps one in better understanding the management of drugs and unnecessary medication.
Common cold: usually rhinoviruses. Influenza viruses (Type A and B) are responsible for the flu. Both spread through the air droplets, or contact-loathing surfaces, or close interaction with an infected person.
Symptoms: They Look Quite Similar but Not Really
Runny or stuffy nose Sneezing Sore throat Mild cough Occasional Mild fever
High fever (often sudden) Body aches and chills Dry, persistent cough Fatigue or weakness Headache Sometimes vomiting or diarrhea (especially in children)
The flu symptoms develop suddenly and tend to be more severe, while the cold symptoms gradually develop and are milder.
A common cold lasts about 5-7 days, and most people recover from this without complications. The flu, on the other hand, can last anywhere from one week to two weeks, with serious cases possibly leading to pneumonia or hospitalization, especially in the elderly or immunocompromised individuals.
There is no cure for either; however, symptoms are managed by:
Rest and fluids
Over-the-counter medications such as paracetamol or decongestants
Antiviral drugs for flu (only if well prescribed by a doctor and taken early during illness)
Also Read: Amazing Health Benefits of Broccoli You Need to Know
Wash hands often Avoid sick people’s company Get annually vaccinated against the flu Give healthy food and regular exercise to the body to build strong immunity
However, colds and the flu present similar symptoms; the difference makes it easy to understand what one should really do in caring for them. Consult a doctor when in doubt, especially if conditions get worse or last long.
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