When you're out exploring the trails of the nearby Rocky Mountain foothills or enjoying a day in Olde Town Arvada, the onset of symptoms like a sore throat, cough, or fatigue can be unsettling. As the seasons change and the air gets crisp in Arvada, seasonal allergies are common and can often mimic the symptoms of a cold or mild flu. However, if you notice more severe and persistent symptoms, such as a loss of taste or smell, it's crucial to consider the possibility of COVID-19 or the flu. Whether you’ve just returned from a hike or spent the day at the local farmers’ market, understanding how to differentiate between these illnesses is vital to ensure you seek the right care without delay. At AFC Urgent Care Arvada, we're here to help you navigate these symptoms and determine the appropriate steps to recover quickly and safely.
What’s the Difference Between Covid, the Flu and a Cold?
These three illnesses are all caused by different viruses. COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the flu is caused by influenza viruses, and the common cold is usually caused by rhinoviruses, although other viruses can also be responsible. Despite being caused by different viruses, these illnesses share many overlapping symptoms, making it challenging to distinguish between them without proper testing.
Symptoms of COVID-19
COVID-19 has a wide range of symptoms, which can vary greatly from person to person. Some individuals may experience severe symptoms, while others may have mild symptoms or be asymptomatic. The most common symptoms include:
- Fever or chills
- Persistent cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Loss of taste or smell (a telltale sign)
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
Symptoms usually appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. Due to the potential severity of COVID-19, especially in high-risk individuals, it’s crucial to seek testing and treatment if you suspect you’ve been infected.
Symptoms of the Flu
The flu shares many symptoms with COVID-19 but generally comes on more suddenly. People with the flu typically experience:
- Fever or feeling feverish/chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headaches
- Fatigue
Some people, particularly children, may also experience vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common than with COVID-19
Flu symptoms tend to appear abruptly and last about 5-7 days. While the flu can lead to serious complications, especially in vulnerable populations, it is generally less severe than COVID-19. However, distinguishing between the two can be difficult without testing.
Symptoms of the Common Cold
The common cold is usually milder than both the flu and COVID-19. Cold symptoms often develop gradually and typically include:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Mild body aches
- Mild headache
- Sneezing
- Low-grade fever (more common in children)
Cold symptoms are generally mild and usually resolve within a few days to a week. Unlike COVID-19 and the flu, colds rarely result in serious health complications.
Key Differences to Watch For
While all three illnesses share similar symptoms, there are some key differences to be aware of:
- Loss of Taste or Smell: This symptom is strongly associated with COVID-19 and is less common with the flu or a cold.
- Symptom Onset: Flu symptoms tend to come on suddenly, whereas COVID-19 symptoms may develop more gradually.
- Severity: COVID-19 has a broader range of severity, with some people experiencing severe respiratory issues, while colds are generally mild.
When to Visit AFC Urgent Care Arvada
Given the overlap in symptoms, testing is often the most reliable way to determine whether you have COVID-19, the flu, or a cold. If you’re experiencing any symptoms and are unsure of the cause, visiting AFC Urgent Care Arvada can provide you with the answers you need.
We offer testing for COVID-19, flu, and other respiratory infections. Our team can evaluate your symptoms, provide testing, and offer treatment options to help you recover as quickly as possible. Whether it’s a prescription for antiviral medication or just some peace of mind, our urgent care and walk-in clinic is here to support you.
