Prominent Difference Between Cold & Flu

A lot of us sometimes have a stuffy nose, which also leads to a scratchy throat while the head is also pounding. Both symptoms overlap, and understanding the difference between a cold and the seasonal flu becomes trickier. This is where calling a doctor on call Dubai to run a rapid flu test is one of the vital solutions.

On the other hand, it is equally difficult to determine for sure after a fast examination with a cotton swab from the back of your throat or your nose. For many, it might be challenging to distinguish between the flu and a typical cold. Both respiratory viral diseases share a number of symptoms in common. Both the common cold and the flu are infectious and transmissible, although the cold’s symptoms are often less severe and go better in a week to ten days.

Although most of those who have the flu recover in less than two weeks, there are significant consequences that can arise, including pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinus or ear infections. Many people consider taking over-the-counter antibiotics to deal with flu or cold symptoms. But it is important to note that antibiotics are not a useful cure since viruses, not bacteria, cause the common cold and the flu. This is where getting a checkup at home from a certified doctor on call in Dubai is the best option for you.

How to Spot the Difference between Cold & Flu

Since we know that viruses cause both flu and colds, not bacteria, they are both respiratory infections. So, it only leaves to the symptoms that can help distinguish between them and help you with the right solution.

If you have a cold, the probable symptoms are as follows;

  • Sore throat
  • Sneezing
  • Cough
  • Runny nose
  • Stuffy nose
  • Headache or extreme body aches
  • Mild fatigue

On the other hand, the symptoms of flu look like the following;

  • Dry coughing
  • Moderate to high fever
  • Sore throat
  • Body aches
  • Extreme muscle pain
  • Headache
  • Stuffy nose
  • Runny nose
  • High levels of tiredness
  • Vomiting or nausea
  • Diarrhea in children

What is Cold, and How to Stop It?

A virus is to blame for the common cold, an upper respiratory illness. There can be more than 200 common viruses that can become a significant element in affecting your cold. Most frequently, the rhinovirus is the one that causes sneezing and sniffling in humans, and it spreads rapidly.

Even while you can get a cold at any time of year, they happen more frequently in the winter. This is due to the fact that most cold-causing viruses prefer dry environments. When a sick person sneezes or coughs, virus-filled droplets fly through the air and spread the cold.

Since a cold is caused by viruses, antibiotics are ineffective in treating it since it is a viral illness. Some over-the-counter medications are still helpful in the treatment as they can relieve aches, congestion, or some other cold symptoms. However, when you take a doctor at home service, they will treat you with the best while advising you for the best treatment.

What is Flu, and How to Stop It?

Another upper respiratory ailment is influenza, or the flu, as it is more often known. The flu is often seasonal, as opposed to a cold, which can occur at any time of year. The flu season typically lasts from fall to spring, with the winter months being its peak.

In flu season, anyone can contract the flu by coming into touch with droplets shared by an infected individual, just like you would with a cold. You are infectious beginning the day before you become ill and for up to five to seven days following the onset of symptoms.

The influenza A, B, and C viruses, with influenza A and B being the most prevalent, cause the seasonal flu. The influenza virus has several strains that are active each year. Because of this, a fresh flu vaccination is created every year.

The best strategies to treat the flu are often water and relaxation. Consume plenty of liquids to avoid being dehydrated. Decongestants and painkillers available over-the-counter, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, can help you feel better and manage your symptoms. On top of it, your doctor can prescribe you antiviral medications to treat the flu. These medications can lessen the severity of the flu and stop complications like pneumonia. However, if they are not begun within 48 hours of becoming ill, they might not be successful.

Why Should You Call Doctor on Call in Dubai?

When you first see signs of the flu, consult your doctor for home care healthcare if you are susceptible to problems. People that are susceptible to severe consequences include:

  • For elderly people
  • Pregnant women
  • Infants or children
  • People with weakened immune systems
  • For people who are excessively obese
  • Patients with chronic conditions
  • People with metabolic disorders such as anemia, diabetes, or kidney disease
  • People who have nursing care at home
  • For people who want to maintain their convenience and comfort of the home.
  • Also, for the people who want to avoid exposing themselves to many people.
  • Getting an immediate doctor at home or hotel becomes significant if you are having trouble breathing, severe sore throat pain, chest pain, persistent fever, cough, etc.

The Final Words

Cold and flu complications are severe and can become a terrifying reason for other health difficulties. It becomes crucial to understand the symptoms better and not let them take a toll on your well-being and betterment. Getting an immediate doctor on call team anywhere in Dubai is now possible with Call My Doctor™.

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