Do you have a cold or the flu? Let's find out the difference.

Oh my... I feel really upset. My throat is scratchy, and my head feels a little heavy. Like everyone else, you probably wonder at times like this, "Is this a common cold or a mild flu?" In fact, the symptoms of the two are very similar, so there is a high chance of confusion. But there are clear differences between the two. Today, let's talk about how to tell the difference between a cold and the flu.

Let's first see, what is the basic difference between the two?

Simply put, the common cold and the flu are two viral infections that affect our respiratory system, that is, the nose, throat , and lungs. But they are both caused by two different types of viruses.

• Colds: These are mainly caused by mild viruses such as rhinoviruses. The illness usually resolves within a few days.
• Flu: This is caused by a virus called influenza . It is a little more severe than a cold, and can sometimes cause serious complications like pneumonia .

The main difference is that the flu comes on suddenly, with incredible speed. Someone who was fine this morning may find themselves struggling to get out of bed by evening. But a cold develops slowly, with symptoms gradually increasing over a day or two.

Let's identify the difference precisely through symptoms.

The table below will help you understand the exact differences between the symptoms of these two.

Remember, the flu is not just a "little cold." It can be much more serious. That's why it's important to pay attention to the symptoms.

When should you see a doctor immediately?

A cold can usually be treated by staying home and drinking fluids . However, if you suspect you have the flu, especially if you fall into one of the following risk groups , it is wise to see a doctor as soon as possible.

• Young children under 5 years old
• Adults over 65 years of age
• Pregnant mothers
• People with chronic diseases such as diabetes , heart disease, asthma, and kidney disease

Also, if anyone has any of the following warning symptoms , do not waste time and immediately see a doctor or go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) .

• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
• Chest pain or pressure
• Sudden dizziness, lightheadedness
• Severe vomiting
• Seizure
• Symptoms subside, then reappear with a high fever and cough

Treatment and prevention

There is no specific treatment for a cold. The only thing you can do is get plenty of rest, drink warm liquids (soup, broth), and take something like Paracetamol if your doctor prescribes it for fever and body aches.

But for the flu, doctors may sometimes prescribe antiviral drugs .

What are these antiviral drugs?

These are medications that stop the virus from multiplying in the body, that is, spreading. These are not antibiotics . Antibiotics can only kill bacteria, not viruses. These antiviral drugs are most effective if they are used within the first 48 hours of the onset of symptoms . This is why it is recommended to see a doctor as soon as possible if you suspect you have the flu.

How can you protect yourself from these diseases?

"It is better to prevent a disease before it occurs than to treat it after it occurs," they say.

1. Flu Vaccine: The best way to protect yourself from the flu is to get an annual flu vaccine. You can learn more about this from your doctor.

2. Wash your hands frequently: Washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water can go a long way in preventing the spread of viruses.

3. Avoid touching your face: Frequently touching your eyes, nose, and mouth increases the chance of the virus entering the body.

4. Stay home if you are sick: If you are sick, stay home and rest to prevent spreading the illness to others.