Cold versus flu symptoms: How to spot the difference
Influenza (flu) and the common cold are very similar making it hard to differentiate. They are both contagious and are respiratory illnesses. But the mark of demarcation comes from the fact that they are both caused by different viruses.
The flu is caused by influenza viruses only. Whereas on the other hand the common cold can be caused by several viruses of varied origins. Some of the viruses include the likes of rhinoviruses, parainfluenza, seasonal coronaviruses and so on. It is also to be kept in mind that the Seasonal coronaviruses should not be confused with SARS-COV-2 as they are very different variants. The virus that causes COVID-19 is of a different variant. Also, take a test for typhoid fever if needed as at times this can be another confusing factor as well.
Because flu and the common cold have so many symptoms in common, it can often be a difficult and cumbersome task to differentiate the two. Also, it may be hard to just know either of them based on just symptoms. In general, the flu is considered to be far worse than the common cold. The symptoms are also typically more intense and also are known to begin abruptly without any prior notice.
Colds on the other hand are usually milder than flu. People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose while it isn't the same when someone contracts the flu.
Colds also generally do not result in serious health problems. And they do not turn into something as severe as that pneumonia, bacterial infections, or the need for hospitalizations.
There are available tests to help find the difference between flu and cold. Also, special tests can help tell if a person is sick with the flu or not. One can also differentiate based on Cough types and Cough Symptoms.
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