Both the flu and the flu are caused by viruses, and they can have similar symptoms. So how do we know if someone has a cold or a bad flu? In this article, we explain the difference.
Colds and flu are the most common diseases in humans, according to an article published in The Lancet. Every year, 5-20 percent of Americans develop flu-like symptoms.
The main difference between a cold and a cold is that, in general, flu symptoms are usually worse.
Each year, more than 200,000 people are hospitalized for colds; The flu causes an estimated 23,600 deaths each year.
Quick facts about flu vs. flu:
Colds and flu share many of the same symptoms; the big difference is that the flu is usually very bad, and is accompanied by a high fever.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the average adult will have 2-3 fevers every year.
Rhinovirus is the most common cause of colds.
The difference between a cold and a cold
Colds and flu are caused by a variety of viruses, and, in general, flu symptoms are worse. Also, there is little chance of serious complications from colds, such as pneumonia and bacterial infections.
The main difference between flu and flu symptoms is that the flu usually infects the flu; fever may be 100 degrees Fahrenheit or more and last for 3-5 days.
Excessive fatigue associated with fever can persist for weeks. Cold symptoms usually subside and last for about a week.
Also, runny nose or nasal congestion are more common in the cold than in the common cold.
Cleaning is another big difference; vomiting is not usually associated with the common cold but may be present in the flu.
Although the above differences are often true, without special tests, it is impossible to know for sure whether you have a cold or a cold. For example, you may have a cold without the flu.
Photo Credit: Stephen Kelly, 2018
What is the flu?
Almost everyone is accustomed to feeling the flu. Colds are equally warm and cool, and the average person will have many colds from childhood to death.
Symptoms include a runny nose, sore throat, coughing and sneezing, watery eyes, headache, and body aches. There is no cure, other than to rest and drink plenty of fluids, but the cold should go away within 7-10 days.
Usually there is no need to visit a doctor, but a person with a weakened immune system is more prone to developing pneumonia as a problem.
To avoid catching or spreading the flu, people should wash their hands regularly and make sure they sneeze on the skin or in the groin, or elbow. This is very clean as it stops the spread of germs, which can stay in clothes or skin-like areas.
What is the flu?
There are three types of influenza virus, influenza A, influenza B, and influenza C. Type A and B are the most common cause of occasional outbreaks. One of the most important symptoms of a cold is a fever or a temperature of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. However, not everyone with the flu will get the flu.
Other symptoms include:
headache or body aches
vomiting, nausea, and possibly diarrhea, especially in children
sore throat and cough
fatigue
Cold and shivering
congested or curved nose
The common cold is less likely to cause a high fever. With a cold, symptoms such as runny nose or sore throat will improve in a few days.
How to treat a cold
The CDC recognizes that most people with the flu do not need medical attention. Most can stay at home and avoid contact with other people to prevent the disease from spreading. However, the following treatments are available:
Prescription drugs - this can reduce fever. Tylenol can help people with the flu to feel better while recovering. Tylenol is also available for purchase online.
Prescription flu drugs - also available from a doctor. They are designed for people who are at high risk of serious complications and are often not required for effective treatment. They can only be given within a certain period of time from the onset of the disease.
Home Remedies - to reduce symptoms, home remedies such as smoke inhalation, nutritious foods such as chicken soup, warmth, and other comfort options can be used.
The doctor will be able to decide if antiretrovirals are needed. People most at risk include infants under 2 years of age, people 65 and older, and pregnant women.
Emergency flu warning signs
Patients should seek medical help if they notice any signs of an emergency.
Warning signs in children include shortness of breath, loss of appetite, and no tears when crying, or having fewer diapers than usual.
Severe symptoms in older children include:
respiratory problems
blue skin color
not drinking enough fluids
not waking up or sharing
upset in a way that they do not want to be caught
colds
If symptoms such as the flu improve but then return with a high fever and a bad cough, the parent should see a doctor.
Antiretroviral drugs and other forms of prevention
The best way to protect yourself from the flu is to get vaccinated every year, as this helps the body build up the immune system so that it can fight off the virus more quickly.
The flu vaccine is recommended during pregnancy as it has been proven to be safe. If the flu occurs during pregnancy, it can have serious complications for the unborn baby and for the mother.
Home Remedies
Many remedies can help people stay at home until the symptoms are gone:
Drops of saline nose can help relieve a blocked nose. These are available over the counter or online.
Vapor rubs can make breathing easier. Various types are available for purchase online.
Washing steam with eucalyptus can reduce congestion.
Grinding with salt water or succumbing to lice can relieve sore throat.
Tylenol and similar medications can relieve aches and pains.
Many herbs can help reduce symptoms. Examples include eucalyptus in lozenges and licorice for sore throat. Not all recommended remedies are supported by research, and some should be used with caution.
Eucalyptus oil, for example, is toxic if taken orally, and licorice is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. It is important to talk to your doctor before using any other remedy at home.
It is also important to eat a healthy diet, drink plenty of fluids, and rest.