As we gradually move through fall, it’s not uncommon to experience symptoms like a runny nose, cough, or fever. But in today’s world, every sniffle and cough can leave us wondering which illness we have– is it a cold, the flu, or even COVID-19? While these illnesses share some similarities in symptoms, they have some key differences. In this blog, we’ll help you distinguish between the common cold, the flu, and COVID-19, so you can take the appropriate steps for your health and the well-being of those around you.
For same-day general illness diagnosis and treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth. Our board-certified medical providers can assess your symptoms, perform a full evaluation, and plan the best treatment plan. Simply walk-in or check-in online today!
Common Cold
The common cold is typically caused by rhinoviruses and is less severe than the flu or COVID-19. Here are some signs that you have a cold:
- Symptoms: Common cold symptoms usually include a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat, and a mild cough. You might also experience fatigue and a low-grade fever, but these are less common symptoms.
- Onset: Cold symptoms tend to develop gradually, and they rarely come on suddenly. You might feel under the weather for a few days before symptoms fully peak.
- Duration: A cold typically lasts about a week, with symptoms improving gradually after a few days.
- Severity: The common cold is generally milder than the flu or Covid, and it’s less likely to cause serious complications or hospitalization.
Influenza (The Flu)
The flu is a more serious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can lead to hospitalization and even death in severe cases. Here’s how to differentiate the symptoms from the common cold or COVID-19:
- Symptoms: Flu symptoms are similar to a cold, but tend to be more severe. You’ll experience a sudden onset of symptoms– which may include high fever, body aches, chills, fatigue, headache and a dry cough. The flu rarely causes a runny nose or sneezing.
- Onset and Duration: Unlike the common cold, the flu usually onsets hard and suddenly. Symptoms can last for one to two weeks, and it may take several weeks to fully recover.
- Complications: The flu can lead to severe complications, especially for vulnerable populations– including the elderly, young children, and those with weakened immune systems or underlying health concerns.
COVID-19
The COVID-19 virus has changed the way we approach illness, and it’s important to recognize its distinctive symptoms as different strains emerge. The latest strain, referred to as EG.5, causes symptoms similar to a cold or flu, as it infects the upper respiratory tract. Defer to the CDC website or contact a medical provider directly for more information on EG.5, and seek medical attention if you suspect you’ve been infected.
- Symptoms: COVID-19 symptoms can range from mild to severe, and may include a fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle or body aches, loss of smell or taste, sore throat, congestion, and nausea.
- Onset: While COVID-19 symptoms can appear gradually, they can also come on suddenly. What sets Covid apart is the loss of taste or smell, which is rare with colds or the flu.
- Duration: The duration of COVID-19 symptoms varies widely. Some people recover within a week or two, while others can experience lingering symptoms for months.
- Testing: If you suspect you have COVID-19, it’s crucial to get tested for an accurate diagnosis.
Get a Same-Day Diagnosis and Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth
Regardless of which illness you have, it’s important to get a professional diagnosis and follow the appropriate treatment plan. Our medical team is committed to providing each patient with the proper care to recover quickly. The center is open seven days a week and operates on a walk-in basis. Just stop by today! If you have any additional questions about these illnesses, please contact us directly at (908) 677-5900.
