The difference between the common cold and the flu

Respiratory diseases are quite common among the population and are considered the main reason why patients visit the doctor. In Puerto Rico, the most common illnesses among adults are common influenza viruses and influenza viruses, especially in the winter.

Respiratory tract infections are classified into the upper respiratory tract (nose) and are primarily manifested as the common cold with symptoms of runny nose, sneezing and itchy nose.

Doctor and family physician Eric Jiménez explains that while symptoms appear very similar, colds and flu are caused by different viruses, and there are key differences.

The difference between the common cold and the flu

Given the high presence of viruses during this time, it is important to be prepared and understand their nature and development.

The common cold, or cold, is characterized by inflammation of the nose and throat. Symptoms of the common cold tend to develop gradually, usually peaking within two to three days. Jimenez noted that the most common symptoms of the condition are sneezing, congestion, runny nose, sore throat, cough and fever, although the latter is usually low or absent in most cases.

Instead, influenza affects both the upper and lower respiratory systems (nose, throat, and lungs). There are four types of influenza, but the ones that mainly affect humans are influenza A and B viruses, which appear suddenly and have more severe symptoms than a cold.

Jimenez mentioned that the most common symptoms of the flu are fever or feeling feverish, chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headache, fatigue, and some people may experience vomiting and diarrhea, especially child.

Unlike a cold, muscle aches are more severe, joint pain, and fever are more common and severe with the flu. However, experts stress that not all flu patients develop fever.

“The common cold does not cause complications,” the doctor clarified. Again, people with normal immune systems should not often get these infections, but when they do, it raises an alarm and warrants evaluation, such as a history of allergies or asthma.

Therefore, it is important for high-risk groups to understand their exposure levels. People most vulnerable to respiratory illnesses are infants and patients 65 years or older. Additionally, people with compromised immune systems, such as pregnant women, patients with diabetes, cardiovascular disease, chronic respiratory disease (such as asthma), or a history of cancer.

Unless a person does not improve or symptoms become complicated, it is usually not necessary to see a doctor for the common cold. Common flu can be diagnosed by evaluating symptoms. The main medical advice is to rest, hydrate and take medication to relieve symptoms, such as pain relievers and decongestants. However, there are specific tests that can diagnose the flu, including the type of flu that affects the patient.

Jimenez insists that vaccines are the best ally in preventing influenza, a condition that can lead to serious complications and even death. When symptoms persist, it is recommended to consult a health professional to obtain an accurate diagnosis and receive appropriate treatment. Other protective measures against both viruses include staying home or isolating when sick, washing hands, and covering your mouth with your forearm when you cough or sneeze.

If you have cold symptoms, you can take over-the-counter medicines to relieve symptoms, such as Robitussin Severe multi-symptomatic cough cold + flu, which is formulated to combat up to eight symptoms and calm coughs. Robitussin relieves symptoms such as sore throat, body aches, fever, nasal congestion, and chest tightness.

Symptoms of a cold usually vary from person to person and may typically include some or all of the following: runny or stuffy nose, stuffy nose, sneezing, cough, sore throat. On the other hand, if symptoms of chest tightness are more severe, such as persistent cough, yellow or green phlegm, difficulty breathing, wheezing, chest pain or pressure, you need to seek medical attention.