Many individuals will experience runny noses, coughs, and sore throats this winter. It can be challenging to determine whether a cold, flu, or COVID is responsible for these symptoms. Though symptoms may vary, the common cold usually produces mild symptoms that are more of a nuisance. In contrast, the flu and COVID can lead to days of bedrest, according to experts.
Health authorities have warned that a wave of winter respiratory viruses, including an increase in norovirus cases, is imminent. To differentiate between these viruses, doctors and scientists have been consulted to outline the most common symptoms of each. A visual representation of the symptoms for the common cold, flu, and COVID is provided with green ticks representing common symptoms, orange circles for occasional and possible symptoms, and red crosses for symptoms that never occur.
The common cold typically presents itself with runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, and a blocked nose. This indicates that if the symptoms are focused on the upper airways, it is likely a cold. Colds typically develop gradually, leading to cough, congestion, and fatigue. While they may be a nuisance, they are generally less severe than the flu. However, the overlap in symptoms between a cold and the flu can make diagnosing the illness a challenge.
On the other hand, the flu is typically more intense and affects the whole body. Profound body aches, fever, and gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea are more prevalent in influenza cases. The flu also has the potential to be life-threatening for certain high-risk groups.
As for COVID, symptoms include a runny nose, sore throat, headache, persistent cough, and fatigue. Fever tends to be more prolonged and elevated, while shortness of breath is more common and can range from mild to severe. A unique symptom of COVID is a sudden loss of taste and smell, which is less common in the common cold and flu. Severe cases can lead to complications such as chest pain, confusion, and bluish discoloration of the lips or face, indicating a need for immediate medical attention.
It is crucial to prioritize vaccinations and adhere to preventive measures to mitigate the impact of these respiratory illnesses.
Flu, Covid, or Cold: How to Distinguish Your Symptoms this Winter – The Ultimate Guide
