As we are in the grips of a cold and flu season, many people are struggling to know when they feel symptoms, if it’s just a common cold, flu or even COVID-19. That can make it difficult to know what which illness you may have with similar symptoms. Knowing the differences between cold, flu, and COVID-19 symptoms will help ensure you get the right treatment, and don’t accidentally spread illness. In this blog post, we’re going to unpack the symptoms for each, how they overlap, and what you should do if you’re feeling unwell.
What Are the Symptoms of a Common Cold?
A cold is usually a harmless viral infection of the upper respiratory tract. Symptoms develop over a period of time and are generally milder than those associated with the flu or COVID-19. So what are the main symptoms of a cold?
- Runny or stuffy nose: The most common symptom of a cold and can last for many days.
- Sore throat: Often the first symptom of a cold, a sore throat may occur alongside mild cough.
- Sneezing: This is still a common symptom of colds, clearing the nasal passages.
- Mild cough: This might be dry or productive, but it tends not to be severe.
- Low-grade fever: Although not common, some people do develop a low-grade fever, usually less than 100°F.
What Are the Symptoms of Flu?
Flu is caused by the influenza virus and usually occurs more abruptly than a cold. Flu symptoms are typically more intense and may leave you feeling far worse. Common flu symptoms include:
- High fever: Flu usually comes with high fever (over 100°F) for many days.
- Severe body aches: Muscle aches and fatigue are frequent, and can make it so you can’t get out of bed.
- Chills: You might get chills that can seem intense, particularly at night.
- Cough: You can develop a dry, nagging cough that may get worse as the flu wears on.
- Sore throat: The flu can cause a sore throat, similar to a cold, though it tends to be more pronounced.
- Headache: One of the most common symptoms of flu, and one that can knock you out.
- Fatigue: Severe fatigue is common, and can last for weeks even after other symptoms have improved.
Understanding COVID-19 Symptoms
COVID-19, the disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has a variety of symptoms. However and as the CDC notes, symptoms can differ widely between people. Here’s what to look for:
- Fever or chills: One of the most clear symptoms, often with chills and sweats.
- Cough: COVID-19 also produces a dry cough, which can get worse over time, like a flu or cold.
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing: This is one of the classic symptoms of COVID-19, particularly in serious cases.
- Fatigue: Similar to the flu, COVID-19 can leave you feeling very tired, but it is longer-lasting.
- Sore throat: Also possible, but more common early in the illness.
- Loss of taste or smell: A specific symptom of COVID-19 is an sudden inability to taste or smell, which usually distinguishes it from the flu and cold.
- Congestion or runny nose: This is more common in mild cases, and is often confused with a cold.
- Headache: Significant headaches can occur with COVID-19, particularly in more serious cases.
Differences Between Cold, Flu and COVID-19
Cold, flu and COVID-19 symptoms can overlap, making it difficult to distinguish between them without testing. However, there are a few important differences to note:
- Onset of symptoms: Cold symptoms come on gradually, whereas flu and COVID-19 symptoms tend to appear suddenly.
- Fever: A high fever is typical for the flu and COVID-19, but not for a cold.
- Fatigue: Profound fatigue is a more common feature of the flu and COVID-19, often lasting much longer than with a cold.
- Loss of taste or smell: This symptom is atypical for the flu or a cold but unique to COVID-19.
- Shortness of breath: It’s probably COVID-19, particularly if it gets worse; coughs that cause shortness of breath are a characteristic of the illness.
- Cough: All three illnesses could come with a cough, but that cough will tend to be more severe and persistent with the flu and COVID-19.
When to Seek Medical Help
If you’re not sure if you have a cold, the flu or COVID-19, always consult a healthcare professional. But you need to see a doctor immediately if:
- You have difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
- You have chest pain or pressure.
- Your fever persists for longer than three days.
- You wonder or are struggling to remain awake.
- Your immune system is weakened or you are in a high-risk group.
Testing for COVID-19, Flu, or Cold
Because these illnesses can share many symptoms, the only way to know for sure if you have COVID-19, the flu or a cold is by getting tested. Home tests or tests through health care providers are widely available for COVID-19. Most health care facilities also offer flu tests, and your doctor can advise on how to treat cold symptoms.
Preventing the Spread of Illness
Regardless of which illness you’re suffering from, there are steps you can take to help curb germ spread:
- Wash your hands often: One of the best ways to avoid illness is to wash your hands thoroughly and often with soap and water.
- Wear a mask if you’re sick: A mask will help limit the spread of respiratory droplets.
- Cough and sneeze into your elbow: Avoid contaminating surfaces or others by using a tissue or your elbow.
- Stay home when you are sick: Resting and isolating yourself helps to keep the spread of illness to others down.
Understanding the Differences Between Cold, Flu, and COVID-19 Symptoms
In conclusion, understanding the differences between cold, flu, and COVID-19 symptoms is essential for taking the right actions when you’re feeling unwell. If you’re uncertain about your symptoms, consulting a healthcare provider for testing is always a good idea. Knowing how to manage your symptoms and protect those around you is vital for staying healthy, especially in a world where viruses can spread quickly.
If you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to reach out to a medical professional. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, especially with the uncertainties surrounding COVID-19. Stay informed, stay safe, and take care of your health. For more health-related tips and information, visit Absolute Urgent Care.
