How to distinguish a cold or flu from a coronavirus infection?

Falling temperatures and Christmas celebrations lead to rise in cases influenza – Influenza A (H1N1) has a higher incidence – although Coronavirus and other respiratory infections, e.g. syncytial virusleading to bronchiolitis, especially affecting children.

Data from the Spanish Ministry of Health show that on Christmas Eve and after Christmas, the incidence rate of such diseases in Spain was 739.9 cases per 100,000 residents, an increase of 37.17% from the previous week, especially influenza.

In view of these data, the President of the Spanish Epidemiology Society (SEE), Oscar ZuriagaIn an interview with EFE, he clarified that this was the beginning of a wave of epidemics (mainly influenza) and that the record for this season was not very different from previous years: “We are certainly not beyond what we have seen in previous seasons. levels seen.” , before the outbreak. “This is a relatively normal season.”

Cold, flu or COVID-19

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 200 viruses can cause colds, with rhinovirus being the most common type, and the origin of the cold The flu is the flu

, mainly H1N1 type. The symptoms of a cold are similar to those of the flu or coronavirus, so they can be confused in some cases. All three diseases are viral in origin and are treated similarly.

The most obvious difference is intensity of symptoms. Symptoms of the flu are more severe and debilitating, and may cause a high fever for three days or more. Additionally, it appears suddenly and symptoms can last one to two weeks. Instead, the cold comes gradually and lasts shorter. Common symptoms include:

Some symptoms, especially runny or stuffy nose and cough, may last up to 10-14 days and improve over time.However, doctors are cautious and recommend paying close attention to symptoms as this may lead to bronchitis or pneumoniaThis is especially true for people with weakened immune systems, asthma or respiratory illnesses.

this COVID-19 infection It presents with flu-like symptoms and is diagnosed through an antigen test. Its diagnosis is important to prevent the spread of the virus in families, especially where there are more susceptible people, and it remains one of the most frequent consultations today.

Laryngitis and bronchitis

On the other hand, doctors Angel DelgadoDoctors at the emergency department of Quirónsalud Córdoba Hospital explain that there are other diseases typical of winter, such as acute laryngitis or bronchitis.

Regarding the first question, the doctor said that he usually experiences the following symptoms aphonia, fever, irritating dry cough, pain when swallowing and earache may also occur.Acute pharyngeal tonsillitis is caused by irritation of the throat Antibiotic treatment may be needed. The main symptoms are pain when swallowing, tonsil growth and fever.

according to acute bronchitisa, Dr. Delgado is convinced that respiratory bronchoconstriction is secondary to an upper respiratory tract infection; typically manifesting as a recurring dry cough and an effortless feeling of suffocation.Pneumonia is caused by bacterial, viral or fungal infectionwill produce a high fever and a feeling of suffocation, and for diagnosis, a chest X-ray and a doctor’s auscultation are required.

This is currently one of the most common reasons for hospital admission, particularly in vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly or patients with pre-existing bronchial pathology.

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For illnesses caused by viruses, over-the-counter medications can help relieve symptoms.this Dr. Angela Boss Explain that nasal decongestants, pain relievers and fever reducers are effective in fighting colds, including acetylsalicylic acid, acetaminophen and ibuprofen. Since many colds have an allergenic component, anti-inflammatory drugs and antihistamines are also used to combat colds that affect the oropharynx and lung cavities, as well as medications for throat irritation, antitussives, mucolytics, and expectorants. related symptoms.

this Antibiotics are not effective against viruses If taken unnecessarily, they can make it harder for your body to fight bacterial infections in the future.