Just start coughing and increase the secretion of the nose that someone always asks: Do you have the flu? Although they are symptoms of the flu, you may actually have a cold. Are we going to know the difference between these two diseases?
First of all we must make it clear that both illnesses are caused by virus transmitted through the air and contact with the patient, however, each is related to a specific type of virus. Influenza is caused by the influenza virus, while the cold is related to several other types, mainly the rhinovirus and adenovirus..
The cold is a much simpler and less dangerous illness than the flu, characterized by the presence of a stuffy nose, runny nose (secretion in the nose), coughing, sneezing and mild pain in the body. The flu causes more serious problems, such as fever greater than 38.5°, nausea, severe pain in the body and, sometimes, it can even lead to death.
Another point that deserves to be highlighted is that, in the cold, the symptoms appear gradually, whereas in the flu they appear suddenly. Problems triggered by the flu usually last a week, unlike a cold, which generally lasts two to four days.
Many doctors like to say that if it is not possible to do the activities of daily life, and it is necessary to stay in bed, it is probably not a simple cold. Therefore, to differentiate the two diseases, it is important to check the severity of symptoms.
Flu is quite serious in children, the elderly and people with immunity problems. In children, severity is related to the fact that they do not have an immunological memory, that is, viruses are still unknown to the body, which does not have antibodies against them. In the elderly, the immune system is more fragile, as well as in patients with some diseases.
A simple measure, such as washing your hands frequently, can prevent colds and flu.
Here are some tips to prevent colds and flu:
- Wash your hands well with soap and water;
- Always leave the rooms ventilated, with windows and doors open;
- always if feed properly;
- At times when transmission rates are high, avoid environments with large crowds of people;
- Avoid contact with people with flu or colds;
- Get vaccinated annually against the flu;
Heads up: If you notice symptoms that prevent you from carrying out your normal activities, seek medical attention immediately. Influenza can trigger pneumonia and lead to death if not treated properly.
By Ma. Vanessa dos Santos
