With the constant change of weather, it is common to sneeze and cough quite frequently. The problem with these signs is that they can show the beginning of a cold or the flu. But to combat them, we need to understand: What is the difference between them?
But before we understand the differences, we need to understand what each of them are and how they act in our body.
Flu
Caused by the “influenza” virus, the flu infects the respiratory system and brings several symptoms as a consequence. Because of the mutation of this virus, it is common to get the flu several times during one’s life, because, even with the antibodies for such a composition, we continue to be contaminated by a variant virus.
Depending on the organism, the signs of the flu can appear in different ways.
Flu Treatment
In many cases, the flu usually cures itself. Because it is a virus, there is no medicine that will kill it, but there are ways to treat its symptoms.
In less serious cases, it is worth taking antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic medication. Taking frequent baths to control the temperature, staying hydrated, and eating light food is fundamental for a faster recovery.
In case of nasal congestion, flushing the nostrils with saline solution can make breathing easier. Prefer to rest in cool places with ventilation. If the flu does not improve within 10 days, a medical follow-up is necessary.
Cold
The cold, often confused with the flu, has its own particularities.
When a virus invades our body, our immune system acts in an attempt to fight it, with this attack on the virus, our body responds with some symptoms.
Such signs may appear from 1 to 3 days after infection. Because of its easy contagion, the transmission of this virus is not always noticed. Avoid contact with people who have a cold as a form of prevention, something very common in cold times of the year, when we stay in closed places with other people, which helps proliferation.
Treatment against cold
As with treating the flu, staying hydrated and eating light foods is important. Also, difficulty breathing may require a humidifier. Stay at rest and gargle with salt and water, this mixture can help relieve any discomfort, as well as kill bacteria lodged in the throat area.
Difference between flu and cold
The biggest difference between these viruses is the intensity with which the symptoms appear. The flu is usually accompanied by high fever and intense pain, while the cold is usually cured more quickly.
In addition, the place affected also differs: The flu affects the entire lung, while the cold affects the upper part of that same organ.
Paying attention to your body’s signals can help you find the right care for your symptoms, check out the chart below:
| Flu | Cold | |
| Cause | Influenza vírus. Flu is transmitted through particles that come out when you cough or sneeze. | Rhinovirus or other viral infection. |
| Period | 7 – 10 days | 2-4 days |
| Most common symptoms | Temperature over 38°C; Tiredness; Discomfort; Headaches and body aches; Dry cough. | Body aches; Sore throat; Cough; Yellow or green secretion; Sneezes; Irritated eyes. |
| In case of complication | Pneumonia. | Sinusitis; Otitis; Pharyngitis; Bronchitis. |
Attention children! Even though these symptoms can be treated easily, because their bodies are not prepared for certain illnesses, children can suffer more from flu and cold viruses. Seek medical advice to find the best treatment.
Remember to keep your children’s immune system up to date, just like yours. A good diet combined with exercise is a great ally in the fight against any disease.
