As the cold, flu and respiratory infection season approaches, distinguishing between these illnesses can be challenging. While all share similar symptoms, there are key differences.
“While both the cold and flu are respiratory illnesses caused by viruses, they differ,” says Priyanka Uppal, M.D., medical director of infection control on the medical staff at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - McKinney. The common cold typically causes a runny nose, sneezing and congestion. The flu, however, is marked by high fever, muscle aches and fatigue, prompting patients to seek medical help. COVID-19, which shares flu-like symptoms, can lead to more severe respiratory issues, such as shortness of breath.
Common Misconceptions
Many misconceptions persist about colds, flu and respiratory infections. “Some mistakenly think the flu vaccine can give them the flu, but it contains inactivated or weakened viruses that cannot cause illness," says Katie Choy, regional director of nursing professional development at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - Plano. Another myth is that antibiotics are needed for viral infections like the flu or common cold. Antibiotics, however, only work against bacterial infections and have no effect on viruses. Another common misunderstanding is that cold weather causes colds or that vitamin C can prevent them. In reality, illness is caused by virus exposure, not cold weather. However, regular vitamin C intake may help reduce the severity and duration of symptoms.
Managing Symptoms and Seeking Medical Help
Mild symptoms can often be managed at home with rest and hydration. “Listen to your body,” says Choy. “If you develop a high fever that doesn’t subside with medication or experience worsening symptoms, seek medical attention.”
Elizabeth Hayworth, the emergency department manager at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - Centennial, says a visit to the emergency room over a primary or urgent care visit is warranted when “symptoms, such as shortness of breath with difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, persistent vomiting, pain or pressure in abdomen, sudden or recurring dizziness, aren’t manageable at home in an otherwise healthy adult.” She also emphasizes that “high risk patients and patients with critical symptoms should not delay seeking treatment.” For the flu, it is recommended to start antiviral treatment within 48 hours of experiencing symptoms. There are options available that offer convenient single-dose treatments for individuals five years and older, both for treating the flu and for preventing it after exposure. COVID-19 patients may benefit from antiviral treatments when administered early in the illness.
Preventive Measures You Can Take
Regular handwashing, disinfecting surfaces, and staying home when sick are highly recommended. These simple yet effective measures help prevent the spread of illness within families and communities. “The flu shot remains the best protection, particularly for young children, seniors and those with chronic conditions,” says Dr. Uppal, noting it not only prevents flu but also reduces illness severity for those who contract it. Preventive care like this can help reduce transmission risk.
Legal Disclaimer: Physicians provide clinical services as members of the medical staff at one of Baylor Scott & White Health's subsidiary, community or affiliated medical centers and do not provide clinical services as employees or agents of those medical centers or Baylor Scott & White Health.
