Overview
"Cold" and "flu" are both terms used to describe common viral infections that affect the respiratory system, but they are caused by different viruses and have distinct symptoms.
Common Cold: The common cold is typically caused by rhinoviruses, though other viruses like coronaviruses and adenoviruses can also be responsible. . Fever is uncommon in adults with a cold but can occur in children. Symptoms typically develop gradually and are milder compared to flu.Influenza (Flu): Influenza is caused by influenza viruses (types A, B, and sometimes C). The flu can lead to more severe complications, especially in vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, and those with weakened immune systems. It can result in hospitalization and even death in severe cases.Both colds and flu are contagious and can spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. They can also spread by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching the face.
Causes
Common Cold:
Rhinoviruses: These are the most common cause of colds, responsible for about 30-50% of cases.Coronaviruses: Certain strains of coronaviruses can also cause colds, though they are less common.Adenoviruses: These viruses can cause a range of illnesses, including colds.Other viruses: Other viruses such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and parainfluenza virus can also cause cold-like symptoms.Influenza (Flu):
Influenza viruses: Influenza viruses are categorized into types A, B, and C. Influenza A and B viruses are responsible for most cases of seasonal flu.Influenza A: This type of virus is responsible for most flu pandemics and epidemics. It undergoes frequent genetic changes, leading to the emergence of new strains.Influenza B: This type of virus typically causes less severe illness than influenza A and is not divided into subtypes.Influenza C: This type of virus usually causes mild respiratory illness and is less common.
Symptoms
Common Cold Symptoms:
Runny or Stuffy Nose: Nasal congestion and discharge are common symptoms of a cold.Sore Throat: Many people with a cold experience throat discomfort or irritation.Cough: A cough is common with a cold, typically starting as a dry cough and possibly progressing to a productive cough with mucus.Sneezing: Sneezing is often a symptom of a cold, especially during the early stages.Mild Body Aches: Some people may experience mild body aches or discomfort, but these are usually not as severe as with the flu.Mild Fatigue: Fatigue or tiredness is common with a cold, but it is usually mild compared to flu-related fatigue.Low-grade Fever (in some cases): Adults with a cold may experience a low-grade fever, but it's less common compared to flu. Fever is more common in children with colds.Influenza (Flu) Symptoms:
Sudden Onset of Fever: Fever is a hallmark symptom of the flu and often comes on suddenly. It can be high-grade, typically above 100.4°F (38°C), and may last for several days.Headache: Headaches are common with the flu and can be severe.Muscle Aches: Muscle aches, also known as myalgia, are often prominent with the flu and can affect large muscle groups.Severe Fatigue: Fatigue or weakness is a common symptom of the flu and can be severe, lasting for several weeks.Dry Cough: A dry cough is common with the flu, though it can progress to a productive cough in some cases.Sore Throat: Some people with the flu may experience a sore throat, but it's usually less prominent than with a cold.Runny or Stuffy Nose (less common): Nasal symptoms are less common with the flu but can occur.Chills and Sweats: Chills followed by sweating are common with the flu, particularly during the feverish phase.Gastrointestinal Symptoms (in some cases): Some people, particularly children, may experience nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea with the flu, though respiratory symptoms are more typical.
Treatment: Modern Medicine
Vaccination: Get the annual flu vaccine to reduce the risk and severity of the flu.Pain Relievers and Fever Reducers: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can help reduce fever and relieve aches and pains associated with colds and flu.Antihistamines: Antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl), loratadine (Claritin), or cetirizine (Zyrtec) can help alleviate sneezing, runny nose, and itching associated with allergies that may exacerbate cold symptoms.Cough Suppressants: Dextromethorphan (Robitussin DM) can help suppress coughing by acting on the cough center in the brain.Guaifenesin (Mucinex) can help loosen and thin mucus, making it easier to cough up and clear the airwayExpectorants: Expectorants can help loosen mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up. They are often found in combination with cough suppressants.Antiviral Medications: Prescription Antivirals: There are prescription antiviral medications available for treating influenza. These drugs, such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu), zanamivir (Relenza), and baloxavir marboxil (Xofluza), can help reduce the severity and duration of flu symptoms if taken early in the course of the illness.
Treatment: Traditional Medicine
- Rest: Get plenty of rest to help your body fight off the infection.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, herbal tea, or clear broth, to stay hydrated and help loosen mucus.
- Steam Inhalation: Inhaling steam from a hot shower or a bowl of hot water can help relieve nasal congestion.
- Saline Nasal Sprays: Using saline nasal sprays or saline nasal irrigation (e.g., with a Neti pot) can help clear nasal passages.
- Humidifiers: Using a humidifier or steam inhalation can help moisten the air and soothe irritated nasal passages.
- Gargling with Salt Water: Gargling with warm salt water can help alleviate sore throat symptoms by reducing inflammation and killing bacteria.
- Honey: Consuming honey mixed with warm water or tea may help soothe a sore throat and suppress coughing, especially in children over one year old.
Caution
Complications: While most cases of colds and flu resolve on their own, they can sometimes lead to complications, particularly in vulnerable populations such as:Young Children: Children, especially those under the age of 5, are at higher risk of complications from flu, including pneumonia, dehydration, and worsening of chronic medical conditions.Elderly Individuals: Older adults, especially those aged 65 and older, are at higher risk of severe flu complications, including pneumonia, heart attacks, and exacerbation of underlying health conditions.Pregnant Women: Pregnant women are at increased risk of complications from flu due to changes in the immune system, heart, and lungs during pregnancy. Influenza infection during pregnancy can also increase the risk of adverse outcomes for the fetus, including preterm birth and low birth weight.Individuals with Chronic Health Conditions: People with chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, and weakened immune systems are at higher risk of flu-related complications.
Prevention
Avoid close contact with people who are sick. If you must be around someone who is sick, wear a mask and avoid touching your face.Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue away in the trash after you use it.Clean and disinfect surfaces that are frequently touched, such as doorknobs, countertops, and light switches.Get enough sleep. Most adults need 7-8 hours of sleep per night.Manage stress. Stress can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to illness.Eat a healthy diet. Eating a healthy diet can help you stay healthy and fight off infection.Exercise regularly. Exercise can help boost your immune system. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.Don't smoke. Smoking weakens your immune system and can make you more likely to get sick.
Nalamaree Team
