Is it a cold or flu? What is the difference?

I am sure that all of us have experienced a cold and ‘flu at some point in our lives. The question is, do we know the difference? To know the difference means that you know how to treat it, otherwise you could be treating your symptoms the wrong way. Influenza commonly known as ‘flu’ is dangerous as it can kill you if not treated properly.

Although the symptoms are similar, there is a difference between the common cold and flu. When you have a cold, your symptoms would be:

• Sneezing
• Runny or blocked nose
• Sore throat
• Mild cough that could get worse at night or in the morning
• The symptoms usually last about 4 days

A fever is rare in adults, but it does occur when you have the flu. Your symptoms usually are:

• Fever
• Chills
• Headache
• Sneezing
• Blocked or runny nose
• Cough starts off dry and your chest may feel sore

The cough often develops into a phlegm-producing cough and your body is likely to feel sore if you have flu. The cough and fatigue may linger on for two to three weeks.

How to treat the flu

Flu is a viral infection, so it doesn’t respond to antibiotics. Antibiotics only work to treat secondary bacterial infections that might arise as a complication. To speed up recovery, here is what you could do:

• Stay in bed and rest for a few days
• Consult with your doctor or pharmacist
• Increase your vitamin C intake
• Eat chicken soup
• Try zinc lozenges to soothe a sore throat