What’s the Difference Between the Flu and a Cold (And Home Remedies for Symptoms)

Before COVID-19, the flu and colds were the two most common major respiratory illnesses among adults, especially during the colder months.

The impact is very wide-ranging.Almost all of us spend at least Catarrh two to three times a year One in 10 people has the flu. This is a very high percentage.Viruses that cause one or another disease are Very contagious Although they are consistent in some of the initial symptoms, they are very different. Colds are mostly harmless, while the flu can often make you feel depressed and possibly make it worse.

Eight Differences Between Flu and Colds

Although the flu and colds can be very similar, it’s important to know how to distinguish the symptoms of each illness in order to treat them effectively.

1. Nasal congestion

A runny nose is one of the main features of a cold and may be accompanied by nasal congestion.However, when we get the flu The nose is usually transparent.

2. sneeze

Such as runny nose and sneezing They are typical symptoms of a coldduring which they occur frequently. in influenza they just happen Occasionally.

3. Itchy eyes

Although this is a symptom more commonly associated with the allergic process, cold It can happen too.Itchy eyes during cold Rarely appears

.

4. Fever

along with influenza usually occurs fever In some cases, the infection rate is very high, which is a symptom that must be alerted to because of the risk of infection.

Fever during 3 or 4 days is normal Because this is a sign that your defense system is fighting the virus, but if it lasts longer, it could be a sign of certain viruses complication.in the case of cold, Fever rarely occurs And it’s usually not high.

5. Muscle pain

typical muscle pain they are classic flu. Actually, Their effects on the legs and back can be very intense.. instead, they only appear sometimes by having a cold.

6. Headache

If you have the flu, you will almost certainly get a headache. Very strong.They appear alone when you have a cold Occasionally.

7. Cough with or without mucus

One thing colds and flu have in common is a cough.The signal that allows you to identify whether it is one thing or another will be slime.

A cough, sometimes accompanied by mucus, occurs with a cold, while a dry cough (a dry cough without mucus) is a symptom of the flu.

8. Sore throat

Throat discomfort is another problem Obvious and frequent signs of a cold.In the case of influenza, it is more occasionally.

Why are they so easily infected?

The impact of the flu is so great because Transfer speed is very fast: You can become infected just by spitting out a few drops of saliva when you talk, cough or sneeze, or simply by touching an object contaminated with the virus. That’s why washing your hands well is so important.

Improperly treated influenza can have serious consequences.so don’t take it lightly Start taking care of yourself from the first symptom.

if you take action When the first signs of discomfort appear

There will be a lot milder.It’s not a matter of cutting it off But strengthen your defenses This way the fight can be quick and the virus won’t wreak havoc on your body.

We have some tips for you below. Follow them and you will find ease. Indeed, If your symptoms worsen or if you don’t notice improvement within a week, consult your doctor immediately..

Take a good bath to relieve flu symptoms

If you shiver, you’re shaking (actually muscle contractions), which is your body’s way of warming up. They usually declare the flu before a fever occurs.

• fill the bathtub Use 37° water at most half Then go inside.
• turn on the tap and Add hot water as much as you can handle. (Of course you shouldn’t burn yourself). It usually lasts between 39° and 42°.
• Stay for 15 minutes And add hot water when cooling. If you can’t tolerate the heat, you can lower the water temperature but for longer.
• Get out of the bathtub slowly Wrap yourself in a warm towel to avoid catching a cold. Stay like this for a few minutes.
• Avoid bathing if you already have a fever or poor blood circulation.

How to control a fever

• Eat less. Plus, you probably won’t be hungry.Notice High body temperature can hinder normal digestion food, which along with the food will produce more toxins and “feed” the virus.

• Drink liquids. Water, infusions, fruit and vegetable juices diluted with water… you are not “recommended” to eat them, but you should drink them. you must compensate for the loss Loss of fluid due to sweating due to fever.

If it’s too high you should lower it Because, besides feeling uncomfortable, it can also be dangerous.

• Wrap your calves Wipe from ankles to knees with two cloths soaked in cold water.
• cover yourself and remove clothing When they are hot. Update them until the fever subsides.
• Cold water can lower the temperature And activates your immune system, which is why it is an ally in the fight against fever. But it cannot be frozen, warm water is enough.
• Contrary to what many of us do You don’t have to overdress (especially children). We must allow heat to “leave” the body.

How to relieve a dry cough

The first thing to understand about a cough is that stopping it isn’t always a good idea. Only if it’s dry and you’re not coughing up mucus.

• Don’t turn up the heat too high Not during the day or night as it dries out the air.
• To maintain good humidity, Place a humidifier in the room A place for you to rest or an uncovered pot of boiling water.
• drink fluids to stay hydrated Throat, avoid coffee, tea and cola.the caffeine they carry Dry throat.