Don't get confused, it's the difference between cold and flu (influenza)

When you have a cold, you will often tell right away that you have the flu. In fact, both of them can be different conditions. A common cold cough doesn't necessarily mean you have the flu, although when you have influenza you usually have coughs and colds. Don't frown just yet. Let us examine the differences between the common cold cough and the flu below.

The difference between colds and flu is based on the cause

The most basic difference from the common cold and flu is the cause. One common cause of a cold cough is a rhinovirus type virus infection. When a cold occurs due to a rhinovirus infection, it is called the common cold or flu common cold.

Not only that, colds are actually a symptom that can be caused by other diseases or health conditions. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology website, some of the causes of cold symptoms are:

• cold or dry air
• allergy
• nonallergic rhinitis
• acute or chronic sinusitis
• changes in body hormones
• certain drugs

Meanwhile, the cause of flu is definitely the influenza virus. The flu is generally not caused by other health conditions, such as colds, other than the virus itself. This virus attacks the entire respiratory system, starting from the nose, throat and lungs.

The causes of flu are three types of influenza viruses, namely influenza A, influenza B, and influenza C. Influenza viruses types A and B usually cause seasonal flu, while type C usually occurs throughout the year.

The difference between colds and flu from their symptoms

The difference between flu and other colds that is quite clear actually lies in the symptoms they cause. Usually, the symptoms of a cold cough (common cold) the most typical, namely:

• Sore throat, which usually goes away within a day or two.
• Blocked or runny nose.
• Sneezing.
• Cough
• Headache (sometimes).
• The body is weak, lethargic, and weak.

Colds have a severity that tends to be mild. In the case of a deep cold common coldUsually the symptoms will improve within 7-10 days. Symptoms can also resolve on their own.

Meanwhile, flu symptoms are generally more severe. Flu symptoms come on faster and are more severe than cold symptoms, including:

• High fever for 3-5 days, although not always.
• Frequent headaches.
• Dry cough.
• Occasional sore throat.
• Body shaking and shivering.
• Muscle pain all over the body.
• Severe fatigue for up to 2 to 3 weeks.
• Nausea and vomiting, most commonly in children.

Muscle aches and chills are the most distinctive symptomatic differences between cold and flu. Flu symptoms will get worse gradually, within 2-5 days. However, if your flu symptoms do not improve for more than 10 days or if they get worse, see a doctor immediately.

The difference between colds and flu from the risk of complications

Another factor that makes the difference between colds and flu is the risk of complications. The common cold cough generally does not cause further health problems.

Meanwhile, flu that drags on without treatment can cause serious complications, such as pneumonia, inflammation of the muscles (myositis), central nervous system disorders, and heart problems such as heart attacks, myocarditis, and pericarditis.

Those of you who have a history of asthma must also be careful. Flu symptoms may trigger a recurrence of an asthma attack. Therefore, people who have asthma should immediately consult a doctor if flu symptoms do not improve or get worse.

The difference between flu and colds from how to treat them

Both people with colds and flu are advised to rest at home so as not to pass it on to other people.

In fact, there is no obvious difference in how to treat flu and colds. Commonly, flu and colds can also heal on their own. However, there are various drug options that can help with a cold or flu.

For colds, what medication you can take usually depends on the cause. If your cold symptoms are caused by allergies, you can take allergy medications such as antihistamines.

Meanwhile, drugs to treat flu caused by viral infections can usually be in the form of antiviral drugs such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu), zanamivir (Relenza), or peramivir (Rapivab). These drugs can speed recovery from the flu and prevent complications of pneumonia.

However, antiviral drugs should only be used with a doctor's prescription. You must consult a doctor before taking these drugs. You can also use ingredients found at home as natural cold remedies.

If you want to reduce nasal congestion and headaches, whether due to a mild cold or flu, you can try medications such as decongestants and paracetamol.

For both colds and flu, you can also use natural-based medicines that contain zinc, vitamin C, or vitamin D. Taking vitamin C supplements regularly can help reduce cold symptoms, which are also often found in flu.

The difference between flu and colds from how to prevent them

Another difference that can be seen from colds and flu is how to prevent them. The best way to avoid getting cold is to get the flu vaccine. Most doctors recommend giving the flu vaccine at the start of the flu season.

Also, wash your hands with soap and running water regularly or use them hand sanitizeralso prevent flu transmission.

Meanwhile, to prevent common colds, vaccines are not the recommended way. The best prevention is simply to maintain cleanliness, diligently wash your hands, avoid substances that trigger allergies or cold air, and maintain your immune system.

Flu and colds are two conditions that have many differences, starting from the causes, symptoms, risk of complications, and how to prevent them.

In conclusion, a cold is a symptom that indicates a certain health problem. Meanwhile, flu is a disease caused by a viral infection, with a cold as one of the symptoms. Knowing the difference between the two can help you get the right treatment.