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People often get confused between the common cold and the flu. While some of their symptoms might seem similar, they are caused by different viruses and tend to spike during seasonal changes, especially when the weather shifts from hot to cold.
In this blog, we’ll learn about the key differences between the common cold and flu, their symptoms, causes, and how to avoid getting sick when seasons change. Let’s start by knowing the difference between the two illnesses first.
Difference Between the Common Cold and Flu Virus
The common cold and flu are often considered the same due to their overlapping symptoms. However, they are caused by different viruses and generally differ in onset, severity, and potential complications.
| Feature | Common Cold | Flu (Influenza) |
|---|---|---|
| Causative viruses | Caused by more than 200 viruses (e.g. rhinoviruses, seasonal coronaviruses) | Caused specifically by influenza A and B viruses. |
| Symptom onset | Gradual onset | Abrupt and sudden onset |
| Fever | Rare or if present, usually low-grade. | Common and often high (lasts for 3 to 4 days) |
| Aches / Muscle pain | Mild or slight aches | Common and often severe |
| Chills | Uncommon | Common |
| Fatigue / Weakness | Sometimes mild | Very common and can be severe |
| Cough | Usually mild to moderate hacking cough | Very common; may be severe |
| Sore throat | Common | Sometimes |
| Headache | Rare | Common |
| Nasal Congestion | Very common | Sometimes, but less common as compared to cold |
| Complications | Rare | Can be serious (e.g. pneumonia) |
The Common Cold: Symptoms and Usual Course
The common cold is a mild, viral infection affecting the upper respiratory tract, including the nose and throat. It generally appears 1 to 3 days after exposure to the virus and lasts for 7 to 10 days. Some of the common symptoms include:
- Runny nose
- Cough
- Sneezing
- Mild headache or body aches
- Fatigue or general feeling of being unwell
- Low-grade fever
- Sore or scratchy throat
- Thick, discolored nasal mucus
Flu: Symptoms and Why is it Different?
The flu refers to a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses affecting the nose, throat, and lungs. Both the flu and the common cold are respiratory illnesses. However, the flu is more severe and its symptoms appear suddenly.
On the other hand, the symptoms of the cold develop gradually and primarily affect the nose and throat. The flu comes with a wide range of symptoms, including:
- High fever
- Sore throat
- Chills and sweats
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Headache, often moderate to severe
- Extreme fatigue and weakness that typically lasts for more than two weeks
- Dry coughs that can become severe.
- Vomiting and diarrhea, which are more common in children than adults
What Causes Them?
The common cold is caused by numerous viruses, most commonly rhinoviruses, which spread through air droplets or being exposed to contaminated surfaces. Once the virus enters the body, it triggers an immune response resulting in symptoms like runny nose, cough, and sore throat.
On the other hand, flu is caused by influenza viruses that spread through the air droplets of an infected person. When you come in contact with the infected person who coughs or sneezes, releasing droplets containing the virus into the air, you become infected.
It is also possible to get the flu by touching a contaminated surface that has the virus on it and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes. Additionally, the flu can also spread through direct physical contact with the infected person, such as shaking hands.
How to Avoid Getting Sick When Seasons Change?
Changing seasons are one of the most common causes of infections, but a few simple habits can help you stay protected and keep infections at bay. These habits include:
Regular Exercise
Staying physically active, even by performing minimal physical activities such as walking, jogging, cycling and running for 30 minutes a day improves your blood circulation and boosts immunity.
Proper Sleep
Minimum 7 to 8 hours of peaceful sleep is important for you to function properly throughout the day. It repairs tissues, improves brain function, strengthens the immune system, and regulates hormones, reducing the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes.
Stress Management
Chronic stress induces the release of cortisol (stress hormone) that, when high can, affect the proper functioning of the immune system. Practicing stress management techniques such as yoga, meditation or even seeking professional help from a licensed therapist that can help you stay healthy during temperature change.
Washing Your Hands Frequently
Research shows that regular handwashing reduces the risk of respiratory infections by 16 to 44%. It removes harmful germs and prevents them from entering your body through your eyes, nose, or mouth. This simple habit acts as a shield against colds, flu, stomach infections, and more.
Avoiding Close Contact with Sick People
Avoiding contact with sick individuals significantly lowers your risk of illness by reducing exposure to infectious pathogens such as bacteria and viruses. It prevents the spread of airborne droplets, surface contamination, and direct transmission, especially during seasonal changes when respiratory infections are fairly common.
Eating a Balanced Diet
A balanced diet is full of essential micronutrients — like vitamins A, C, D, zinc, and iron. They play a crucial role in the functioning, development and maintenance of immune cells. These nutrients help your body fight against infections more effectively, supporting, keeping seasonal illnesses at bay.
Staying Hydrated
Drinking enough water during seasons changes helps your body maintain essential functions such as supporting the immune system, fighting off infections and regulating body temperature. Also, proper hydration ensures quick digestion and prevents early fatigue and common issues such as headache.
Getting Enough Sunlight
Sitting under the sun can be helpful during seasons change as UV-B rays convert skin’s cholesterol into vitamin D, which is crucial for activating immune cells and reducing infection risk. It also helps reduce swelling and irritation in the body, making it easier for you to stay healthy when the weather changes suddenly.
Natural Remedies that Might Help in Treating Cold and Flu
Some effective natural remedies that can help with cold and flu symptoms include:
- Drinking plenty of fluids
- Proper rest
- Steam inhalation
- Honey
- Saltwater gargle
When to See a Doctor?
Sometimes common cold and flu symptoms get well on taking medications and proper rest. However if they start getting worse, you must consider visiting a doctor. Here are some guidelines for both the illnesses:
Common Cold
- If your symptoms don’t improve after 10 days or worsen
- You experience difficulty breathing or feel dehydrated Symptoms like fever or cough return or get worse after improving
- Your chronic illness (e.g. asthma) worsens after catching a cold.
Flu (Influenza)
- Severe symptoms like chest pain, frequent vomiting, or sudden dizziness start showing up.
- Your symptoms do not improve after 7 days
- Neck stiffness or loss of consciousness.
>> Read More: 6 Home Remedies for Cold and Flu To Give Quick Relief
Protect Yourself from Seasonal Illnesses with Care Health Insurance
Seasonal changes often lead to a significant rise in respiratory infections such as common cold and flu, but simple lifestyle changes, such as staying active, eating well, and getting enough sleep can reduce your risk of developing these infections. Still, infections can be unpredictable and require medical treatment.
Having a reliable health insurance plan ensures you receive timely treatment and medical care without burning a hole in your pocket. Care Health insurance allows you to receive cashless treatments at network hospitals and offers comprehensive coverage- from pre and post hospitalisation to medications. It acts as a financial safety net ensuring that you stay protected during the time of need.
