What is the difference between the flu and a cold? Know how to identify!
Could you tell us what the difference is between the flu and a cold ? Although the symptoms from one to the other are very similar, it is important to learn to identify their differences and, from there, take the correct treatment in relation to your own health. Of course, always counting on a doctor’s diagnosis.
With that in mind, to help you clarify once and for all the difference between them, as they are caused by different viruses, we will answer the following topics throughout this article:
- What is the difference between flu and colds?
- When to seek medical help?
- 5 tips to prevent colds and flu.
What is the difference between the flu and a cold?
Year after year, with the arrival of some seasons full of cold air masses, such as autumn and winter , many people end up experiencing colds and flu. Although they are similar and common diseases, many people are unsure which one they have.
It is worth remembering that the cold is not always the cause of these diseases. In other words, staying indoors and not washing your hands well can also facilitate the circulation of viruses responsible for the flu and cold.
It is, however, important to note that the flu and the common cold are not the same; after all, they are caused by different viruses. Therefore, there is nothing better than understanding your differences, right?
The flu
The flu, also known as or referred to as influenza, is a type of viral infection related to the respiratory system. Caused by the influenza virus, types A, B, C, and D, although the most common are only A and B. Particularly in seasonal periods, a feeling of tiredness and malaise is brought. Check out some other symptoms:
- Nasal runny nose;
- Sore throat;
- Fever above 38°C;
- Cough (usually dry);
- Intense headaches;
- Muscle and joint pain;
- Between others.
Recovery period ranges from a week to a week and a half, depending on the individual. If left untreated, it can progress and cause pneumonia, thus, as with any other sickness, it is essential to see a doctor, receive treatment, and take the appropriate measures.
Cold
Just like the flu, the cold is also a respiratory infection, affecting the upper airways. Its difference lies precisely in the multiple viruses, such as rhinovirus and parainfluenza.
The first symptoms begin with a simple itchy nose and, in other cases, it can occur through throat irritation. Hours later, the symptoms become more persistent, followed by other manifestations in the body, such as:
- Cough;
- Physical tiredness ;
- Mild muscle pain;
- Runny or stuffy nose;
- Body aches and discomfort;
- Low fever at times;
- Between others.
Even though the symptoms are similar, the cold is not as strong and the recovery time is much shorter, being between two and four days, depending on immunity.
Whether it be the flu or cold, many can catch the influenza virus. On the other hand, the people most predisposed are: children , pregnant women , the elderly and patients with chronic and heart diseases.
When to seek medical help?
Symptoms and intensity can be different from one person to another. For this reason, if you are unsure between the flu or a cold, the best thing will be to go to the doctor for a correct diagnosis and, from then on, he will prescribe the best treatment so that the symptoms do not extend.
Furthermore, there are other factors that can be an indication to go to the doctor, such as, for example, fever above 40 °C and persistence of symptoms after three days.
5 tips to prevent colds and flu
Did you know that it is possible to increase your immunity and prevent these diseases through some practical habit changes in your daily life? With that in mind, we’ve put together some tips for you:
1 – Practice physical activity
Whether it’s walking outdoors or working out , the most important thing is to adopt a new healthy habit into your routine. By practicing any modality of your choice, you will be improving your immunity, as it acts against numerous invaders present in the body.
2 – Have a healthy diet
Basic to anyone who wants to fight colds and flu is a healthy diet, you see? This is because, in general, many eat “nutrient-poor” foods, and it follows that their immunity is low, putting their bodies prone to the viruses. But after all is said and done, which foods must make it to your menu?
Focus on foods rich in Vitamin C, which includes citrus fruits—orange, lemon, and tangerine. Also, include your leafy greens like kale, spinach, chicory, and chard.
3 – Wash your hands daily
Washing your hands with soap and water is a simple attitude that can help you eliminate viruses and bacteria, you know? Cold and flu, as well as many other diseases, such as conjunctivitis and herpes, can be prevented by washing your hands daily.
Therefore, if you touch your hands somewhere, avoid putting them in contact with your mouth and eyes. Then wash them and do this process whenever possible.
4 – Do not share personal objects
Regardless of the utensil, whether kitchen, such as cutlery and glasses, or office objects, such as pen, keyboard and mouse, when shared, they can spread illnesses, as viruses and bacteria are present on the surface.
Therefore, before using any objective, remember to sanitize them. In the case of kitchen utensils, wash with soap and water, and other materials with alcohol.
5 – Prefer ventilated environments
Whether to prevent colds and flu or to avoid passing the virus to friends and family, it is important to keep environments ventilated. If you work in an office, for example, keep the windows open to circulate air. The same goes for indoors, okay?
Third, avoid crowded places and very small rooms. In case of symptoms, keep wearing a mask and clean your hands at all time.
Extra tip: in gyms and studios, try to clean the equipment before and after use, be it a dumbbell, mat or larger equipment such as weight machine benches.
Remember: in addition to following all these recommendations, be sure to get vaccinated against the flu. Currently, keeping vaccinations up to date is the best way to prevent any type of infection.