Flu Vs Cold? How to Tell the Difference and What to Do Next
Is there really a difference between the two? You must be thinking the same thing, that cold and flu are exactly the same. But this is the surprising bit. They might have similar symptoms but they are quite different from each other.
The common cold and influenza (flu) are prevalent in the winter months primarily. The biggest difference between the two is the severity of the symptoms. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, just in the year 2018-2019, around 35 million people were affected by the flu. The result was close to 34,000 deaths. These are some very alarming statistics. However, if you know enough about the common cold and flu, you can stay away from both these diseases.
What Is The Common Cold?
A cold is defined mainly as a common respiratory illness. It happens due to infections and rhinoviruses. It is also a very frequent reason why people all around the world miss work and school. Do you know that the average adult in the US finds himself struggling with this disease at least twice every year? A lot of people deal with cold and flu symptoms such as headaches and heavy cough every seasonal change and that's why it is called the common cold virus. You will notice the following symptoms:
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Frequent sneezing
- Sore throat
- Coughing
- Mucus draining down the throat
- Watery eyes
- Irritation in eyes
- Headache
- Heaviness in the head
- Fatigue
Well, there is no cure for the common cold but yes a few home remedies are common to both this infection as well as flu. More on that later in the blog.
How Long Does A Cold Last?
Could take a week or maybe less
How Long Do Cold Symptoms Last?
Severe symptoms may decrease over 5 days or less
What Is Influenza?
This is also a very common respiratory illness. It is a result of an infection from the influenza virus. It is not that common but when it occurs, there can be severe complications. Let's have a look at a few symptoms below:
- You might feel feverish
- Complain about a cold chill down your body
- Frequent coughing
- Sore throat
- Pain in your body or several areas of the body
- Running or stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Headache
- Tiredness throughout the day
- Feeling of vomiting or diarrhea, especially in children
Yes, both have some very similar symptoms but the best part is that the home remedies that you can administer are equally effective and delicious.
How Long Do Flu Symptoms Last?
Could take a week or 10 days depending on your immunity
6 Most Effective and Tastiest Remedies for Cold and Flu Symptoms At Home
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Chicken Soup Is Your Superhero
Chicken soup is one of the most delicious ways to dial down the symptoms of cold and flu. It is warm, full of lean protein and good fats and it keeps you hydrated. Chicken soup may slow down the movement of neutrophils in the human body. This impacts the movement of your white blood cells and helps them stay concentrated in the areas of your body that need them the most. This may help you heal faster from any disease or infection that you might be struggling with.
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Honey, Where Is the Honey
Honey is a powerful antibacterial and anti-microbial extract. It is one of the most potent, effective, and again naturally available cough suppressants. You can find a wide variety of honey in the market and when combined with the juice of half a lemon and green tea, it makes for a fantastic antioxidant. It improves your immunity and just half a teaspoon of honey early in the morning is enough to keep you away from several infections and diseases.
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Ginger Tea Anyone
Ginger again is a very strong antioxidant and it has some very powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties as well. Some studies also say that it helps reduce muscle pain and can do away with symptoms of nausea and vomiting. If you drop just a few slices of raw ginger root in boiling water, the concoction is highly suitable for patients dealing with cold and flu. It also helps you with muscle pain, and sore throat, and gives you enough hydration.
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Garlic Is Not Just an Added Flavor
Did you think that garlic was just a spice or probably some superficial flavor? Garlic contains a compound called allicin. This has very strong anti-microbial properties and some experts say that it is antiviral as well. By adding enough garlic to your daily diet, you can reduce cold and flu symptoms significantly. Some experts also suggest eating two or three cloves of garlic raw on an empty stomach. Guess it won't harm you to find out what it does when you are down with a cold or flu, right?
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Essential Oils to The Rescue
Peppermint essential oil in particular and also thyme, tea tree, and eucalyptus are practically magical when it comes to relieving cold and flu symptoms. They also help with other respiratory conditions when administered cleverly. You can use a combination of these oils in a diffuser and see how impactful they can be. A few drops of these essential oils can also be added to a warm bath which can be very helpful in relieving these horrible symptoms.
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Increase the Humidity Already
Cold and flu usually result in your nasal passage becoming dry and irritable. Invest in an efficient humidifier. Putting essential oils in it helps reduce the impact of inflammation in your nose and throat.
In The End
Remember to sleep with an extra pillow under your head so that you do not get nasal congestion at night. Also, do not consume anything cold such as fruit juice or aerated beverages. Other than this, you have to have patience for at least 7 days. The symptoms of both these infections usually die down a week after you catch them. And, do remember to visit Wellness Extract regularly so that you can get all the information on how to live a healthy and happy life. The secret to aging gracefully is with us.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. The information contained within this page is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace the advice or attention of health care professionals.