Differences between the common cold and the flu
The common cold is an infection of the respiratory tract (nose, throat and lungs) caused by several virus strains. Often mistaken for the flu, it differs in terms of both its origin and its symptoms, which are rather benign.
Many of us have trouble differentiating a cold from the flu. This is understandable since both infections affect the upper respiratory tract in similar ways. Yet, they’re very different.
The best way to know if you have a cold or the flu is to pay close attention to your symptoms.
|
Symptoms |
Cold |
Influenza (flu) |
|
Fever |
Rarely |
Usually. Between 38 ºC and 40 ºC. May last 2 to 5 days. |
|
Cough |
Rarely |
Usually. May last 2 weeks. |
|
Excessive fatigue |
Rarely |
Usually. May be severe. |
|
Body aches and pain |
Rarely |
Usually. May be severe. |
|
Nasal congestion and runny nose |
Usually |
Rarely |
|
Chest pains |
Mild to moderate |
Usually. May be severe. |
|
Headaches |
Rarely |
Usually. May be severe. |
|
Nausea and vomiting |
Rarely |
Especially children. |
|
Sore throat |
Usually |
Rarely |
|
Sneezing |
Usually |
Rarely |
|
Tiredness and weakness |
Mild |
Usually. May last 2 to 3 weeks. |
Causes
The common cold normally hits from September to February, peaking during back-to-school time, the middle of winter and the beginning of spring.
Colds can be caused by one of 200 types of virus, the most common being the rhinovirus.
Much like the flu, the common cold is also transmitted easily from one person to another through tiny airborne droplets. When a person infected with a cold coughs or sneezes, he or she projects into the air millions of virus-laden particles, ready to contaminate others.
Treatment
There is no cure for the common cold. However, the following tips can help to keep symptoms from getting worse.
- Stay home and rest. This will help you feel better and make sure you don’t pass it on.
- Keep warm and drink plenty of fluids (warm liquids reduce congestion).
- Gargle with salted water to ease your sore throat.
- Keep the ambient air moist to relieve coughing (use a humidifier if needed).
Medications
Certain over-the-counter medications can help to reduce symptoms. These include:
- Nasal decongestants in a tablet, spray or drops
- Cough suppressants for dry coughs
- Expectorants to alleviate congestion
- Antihistamines to reduce nasal discharge
- Analgesics for pain relief.
To learn more about these medications, ask your pharmacist. He can help you choose the medication best suited to your symptoms.
Ironically, the best protection against the common cold is to catch it. In fact, once you are infected with a given strain, you will be immunized against it for several months.
In-store health services
If you have any other questions about the common cold, talk to your pharmacist. He’s there to help!
The pharmacy services presented in this section are offered by pharmacist owners who are affiliated with Uniprix. The pharmacists are solely responsible for the professional activities carried out during the practice of pharmacy. These services are offered in participating pharmacies only. Certain fees and conditions may apply.
* The information contained herein is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide complete information on the subject matter or to replace the advice of a health professional. This information does not constitute medical consultation, diagnosis or opinion and should not be interpreted as such. Please consult your health care provider if you have any questions about your health, medications or treatment.