Know the signs and act in time so that the cold does not overcome you
With the arrival of winter, symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing and sore throat become common. However, these can be due to different conditions: allergies, colds, or the flu. Knowing the differences between these health problems is essential to take appropriate measures and avoid complications. Here we explain how to differentiate them to take care of your well-being and so that the cold temperatures of these months don’t get the better of you or your defenses.
What is an Allergy and How to Recognize Its Symptoms?
Allergies are immune system reactions to normally harmless substances, such as pollen, dust, or pet dander. Although allergy symptoms may resemble those of a cold or flu, they often have different characteristics.
Common allergy symptoms:
- Frequent sneezing
- Nasal congestion and watery discharge
- Itchy eyes, nose, and throat
- Watery and red eyes
Differences from cold and flu: Allergies rarely cause fever or muscle aches. Their symptoms can last as long as the person is exposed to the allergen, so the duration can be weeks or even months.
Treatment: Allergies are usually treated with antihistamines and nasal decongestants to reduce symptoms. Identifying and avoiding the allergen is essential to prevent its occurrence.
Common Cold: Symptoms and Treatment
The common cold is a viral infection that affects the upper respiratory tract. Although it is benign, its symptoms can be bothersome.
Main symptoms of the common cold:
- Nasal congestion and thick discharge
- Sore throat
- Sneezing
- Mild cough
- Low fever (in some cases)
Differences from the flu: Unlike the flu, colds do not usually cause high fever or intense muscle aches. In addition, their symptoms appear gradually and usually last between 7 and 10 days.
Treatment: To relieve a cold, rest, good hydration and, under medical or pharmaceutical supervision, the use of decongestants, humidifiers or cough syrups are recommended.
Flu: A Viral Infection of Greater Intensity
Flu is a generally viral infection, more severe and widespread than the cold, which affects both the respiratory tract and other parts of the body. It is generally caused by the influenza virus, although as we have seen in recent years, there are more viruses that can cause it.
Typical symptoms of the flu:
- High fever (usually above 38°C)
- Muscle and joint pain
- Intense headache
- Extreme fatigue
- Persistent dry cough
- Sore throat
Differences from the cold: The flu usually causes more severe and bothersome symptoms, appearing suddenly. Its duration can vary between one and two weeks. In older or immunocompromised people, it can lead to serious complications, such as pneumonia.
Treatment: Rest, hydration and over-the-counter medications to relieve symptoms are essential. In some cases, the doctor can prescribe specific antivirals that help reduce the duration and severity of the flu if taken in time.
Conclusion: Differences between Allergies, Colds and Flu
Learning to differentiate between allergies, colds and flu allows you to make informed decisions about what care is appropriate. Allergies tend to be persistent and do not cause fever; a cold is less severe and disappears in a few days, while the flu is more intense and requires more attention. If you have doubts or if the symptoms worsen, it is advisable to consult a health professional.
Always remember to prioritize your well-being and take preventive measures, maintain adequate hygiene, eat well and in the case of older adults, at-risk populations or workers with vulnerable groups, have the flu vaccine, especially in winter.
Sources
Instituto Nacional de la Salud. (s.f.). ¿Resfrío, gripe o alergia?. Recuperado de https://salud.nih.gov/recursos-de-salud/nih-noticias-de-salud/resfrio-gripe-o-alergia
Mayo Clinic. (15 de mayo de 2024). Resfrío o alergia: ¿cuál de los dos?. Mayo Clinic. Recuperado de https://www.mayoclinic.org/es/diseases-conditions/common-cold/expert-answers/common-cold/faq-20057857.
