You're sure it's a cold, your friends are convinced it's the flu, and advertisements say there are drugs that treat both. And the difference exists and is very important, warns Dr. Susan Rem, director of the US Institute of Infectious Diseases. The flu is caused by the influenza virus, and since there are only a few strains of the virus, the flu can be prevented by vaccination or treated if you get it.
Colds can be more complicated.
"The most common cause is rhinovirus, but there are more than 200 other viruses that can be triggers for the common cold," explains Dr. Rehm. This means that there is no antiviral therapy and the best you can do is treat the symptoms. But even here, caution is needed, so "Prevention" has extracted tips on how to treat the flu and how to treat a cold, but above all, how to distinguish between them.
The flu is if…
"It hits you like lightning," summed up Dr. Steven Lam, an internist and professor at New York University School of Medicine.
"You are very likely to 'burn' with a temperature above 38 degrees Celsius and be broken," Dr Lam explains. Fever, fatigue, muscle aches and chest tightness are also characteristic of the flu.
You may have a cough, you may have a stuffy nose, but you are less likely to suffer from upper respiratory problems than if you had a cold.
What should you do?
See a doctor, especially if you are chronically ill or in another risk group.
"Prescription antiviral drugs must be taken within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms," explains Dr. Karen Hill, one of the founders of the Houston Association of Internists and Pediatricians. The treatment will relieve symptoms, speed up recovery and, most importantly, reduce the risk of complications such as pneumonia or bronchitis.
And what should not be done?
First of all, don't ignore the symptoms - don't even try to "walk" the flu because not only will your recovery be much longer, but you'll spread the infection. Also, do not seek or take antibiotics.
"They help with bacteria, but not with viruses," points out Dr. Lamm, and adds that he will only prescribe antibiotics when there are complications that point to a bacterial infection, such as coughing up green secretions with traces of blood.
It's a cold if…
"Symptoms appear primarily above the neck," explains Dr. Neil Schachter, author of "The Good Doctor's Guide to Colds and Flus." A runny nose, cough, watery eyes, sore throat, stuffy nose and sneezing are typical symptoms that develop over a day or two.
"You may have minor aches and pains or a fever, but far less than the flu," he explains.
What should you do?
"To get rid of a cold as soon as possible, take 250 mg of vitamin C as soon as you notice the first symptoms," advises Dr. Schachter, and immediately adds:
"However, there is no conclusive evidence that it works, and excessive amounts can upset the stomach, but it is worth a try. If symptoms become more severe, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Antihistamines can dry out the sinuses
Hill advises a more natural solution: seawater nasal sprays.
"The lower respiratory tract is the place where viruses spread and enter the body. By rinsing the nose, you mechanically get rid of part of the virus," explains Dr. Hill. However, rinsing the nose should not be overdone in order not to additionally "abuse" the already tortured mucous membrane.
What not to do
If you have a moderate temperature, lower than 38 degrees, you do not need to lower it, advises Dr. Lam.
"Unless you are in a risk group, he points out and clarifies: Increased body temperature is a natural way of fighting infection. It is better to rest, lie down and drink a lot of fluids to avoid dehydration.
And what if something is worse?
Some bacterial infections also have similar symptoms, primarily streptococcus. Then swelling of the lymph nodes and tonsils is characteristic.
White spots in the oral cavity (in the area of the tongue, tonsils and pharynx), drainage of yellow-green secretions from the sinuses and, in rare cases, a rash may also occur. If you experience these symptoms, it is best to see a doctor.
NATURAL FACILITIES
Aromatic inhalation
Pour hot water into the basin, cover yourself with a towel and inhale. Add two tablespoons of ground fresh ginger, a few drops of peppermint or eucalyptus essential oil.
Hot shower
A sauna would be ideal, but steam from a hot shower will also open the airways and soften secretions in the nose and sinuses.
Humidify the air
An air humidifier or a wet towel on the radiator will help you during the night - to wake up less often due to a stuffy nose.
How can we protect ourselves?
Maintaining hygiene is very important. Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly, throw away used paper tissues, ventilate the premises and avoid contact with people who have the flu or a cold.
Bonus video:
