How can you tell if you have a cold or the flu. What are the key differences in symptoms between these two illnesses. Why is it important to recognize flu symptoms early. How can you prevent catching and spreading colds and flu.

The Importance of Distinguishing Between Cold and Flu

While many people casually refer to any winter illness as “the flu”, it’s crucial to understand the differences between the common cold and influenza. Though they share some similar symptoms, the flu can be far more serious, especially for certain high-risk groups. Recognizing flu symptoms early allows for prompt treatment and helps prevent spreading the virus to others.

Who is at Higher Risk for Flu Complications?

Certain groups are more vulnerable to severe flu symptoms and potentially life-threatening complications. These high-risk individuals include:

• Young children
• Adults over 65
• Pregnant women
• People with chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease
• Those with compromised immune systems

If you live with or care for someone in a high-risk group, getting vaccinated is especially important to avoid transmitting the flu virus to them.

Key Differences Between Cold and Flu Symptoms

Both colds and flu are respiratory illnesses caused by viruses, but they have some distinct characteristics that can help you tell them apart:

Onset and Severity of Symptoms

Cold symptoms tend to develop gradually over a few days and are generally milder. Flu symptoms often come on suddenly and are more severe, with fever, body aches, and fatigue that can be debilitating.

Fever

A mild fever is rare with a cold. The flu typically causes a fever of 101°F (38.3°C) or higher, often accompanied by chills and sweats.

Duration of Illness

Colds usually last about 7-10 days. Flu symptoms can persist for up to three weeks, though the worst symptoms typically improve within a week.

Potential Complications

Colds rarely lead to serious health problems. The flu can progress to pneumonia or other severe respiratory issues, especially in high-risk individuals.

Preventing Colds and Flu: Practical Strategies

Taking proactive steps to avoid catching and spreading respiratory viruses is the best way to stay healthy during cold and flu season. Here are some effective prevention strategies:

Boost Your Immune System

A strong immune system is your body’s first line of defense against viruses. Enhance your immunity by:

• Getting regular exercise
• Maintaining a healthy sleep schedule
• Staying hydrated
• Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
• Managing stress through relaxation techniques

Practice Good Hygiene

Viruses spread easily through respiratory droplets and contaminated surfaces. Protect yourself and others by:

• Washing hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
• Using alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap isn’t available
• Avoiding touching your face, especially your mouth, nose, and eyes
• Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow
• Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces

Get Vaccinated

Annual flu shots are the most effective way to prevent influenza. The vaccine is updated each year to target the most prevalent strains. Getting vaccinated early in the season allows your body time to build immunity before flu activity peaks.

Treating Colds and Flu: What You Need to Know

While there’s no cure for the common cold or flu, there are ways to manage symptoms and support your body’s recovery:

Rest and Hydration

Getting plenty of sleep and drinking fluids helps your immune system fight off the virus more effectively.

Over-the-Counter Medications

Decongestants, pain relievers, and cough suppressants can provide temporary symptom relief. Always follow dosage instructions and consult a healthcare provider if you have concerns.

Antiviral Medications for Flu

If diagnosed early, prescription antiviral drugs can shorten the duration of flu symptoms and reduce the risk of complications. These are especially important for high-risk individuals.

Recognizing Warning Signs: When to Seek Medical Care

While most people recover from colds and flu without complications, it’s important to be aware of warning signs that indicate a more serious problem:

Emergency Flu Symptoms in Adults

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Chest pain or pressure
• Sudden dizziness or confusion
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with fever and worse cough

Emergency Flu Symptoms in Children

In addition to the above symptoms, seek immediate medical attention if a child experiences:

• Fast breathing or trouble breathing
• Bluish skin color
• Not drinking enough fluids
• Not waking up or not interacting
• Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
• Fever with a rash

The Impact of Cold and Flu on Public Health

Respiratory illnesses like colds and flu have significant impacts on public health, the economy, and healthcare systems:

Economic Burden

Each year, colds and flu result in millions of lost workdays and reduced productivity. The direct and indirect costs of influenza alone are estimated to be billions of dollars annually in the United States.

Strain on Healthcare Systems

During peak flu season, hospitals and clinics often experience a surge in patients, leading to longer wait times and potential shortages of resources. This can impact care for both flu patients and those with other medical needs.

Community Spread

Respiratory viruses can spread rapidly through communities, particularly in schools, workplaces, and other crowded settings. This underscores the importance of individual prevention efforts to protect public health.

Debunking Common Myths About Colds and Flu

Misinformation about colds and flu is widespread. Let’s address some common misconceptions:

Myth: The Flu Shot Can Give You the Flu

Fact: The flu vaccine contains inactivated virus particles that cannot cause infection. Some people may experience mild side effects, but these are not the flu.

Myth: Antibiotics Can Treat Colds and Flu

Fact: Antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections, not viruses. Using antibiotics unnecessarily contributes to antibiotic resistance.

Myth: You Can Catch a Cold from Being Cold

Fact: Temperature alone doesn’t cause illness. However, cold weather may weaken the immune system and increase time spent indoors, where viruses spread more easily.

Emerging Research and Future Developments

Scientists continue to study respiratory viruses and develop new prevention and treatment strategies:

Universal Flu Vaccine

Researchers are working on a “universal” flu vaccine that could provide protection against multiple strains, potentially eliminating the need for annual shots.

Improved Diagnostic Tools

New rapid testing methods may soon allow for faster, more accurate diagnosis of respiratory viruses, enabling earlier treatment and better containment of outbreaks.

Novel Antiviral Treatments

Ongoing research aims to develop more effective antiviral medications with fewer side effects and a lower risk of viral resistance.

Understanding the differences between colds and flu, practicing prevention strategies, and knowing when to seek medical care are crucial for managing these common but potentially serious illnesses. By staying informed and taking proactive measures, we can reduce the impact of respiratory viruses on our health and communities.

(Sneeze) Is That a Cold or the Flu?

To some, the influenza virus or the flu is nothing but a common ailment one gets during the cold months but, occasionally it can be fatal for children and adults with weakened immune systems. While flu deaths in Alaska are rare, healthcare providers still recommend everyone get the Flu Shot to avoid getting this serious virus.

People with a higher risk of serious flu complications are:

• young children
• people with chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes or heart, kidney and lung disease
• people over 65 years of age
• pregnant women

If you live with or care for any of the above groups it is important that you get vaccinated to avoid spreading the flu to them.

How is the common cold different from flu?

Both are respiratory illnesses but they are caused by two very different viruses. Due to the similarity of symptoms, it can be very difficult to tell the difference between a cold and the flu initially. Only a laboratory test will give you a definitive answer but, there are some slight differences between them that can help you determine the difference.

Severity – Symptoms for both include stuffy nose, sneezing, coughing, fever and, body aches but they are much milder with a common cold than the flu. Common cold symptoms normally crop up and worsen gradually whereas fever symptoms hit hard and suddenly.

Fever – With common colds a mild fever is rarely present. With the flu, fevers are normal and temperatures can reach 101° F or higher and be accompanied by body aches, pains and chills.

Duration – A common cold lasts about ten days but the flu can last as long as three weeks.

The influenza virus also attacks the lungs, which can progress to a serious lung ailment. This is why people with chronic respiratory conditions are particularly vulnerable.

Cold and Flu Prevention

As with any condition the best treatment is prevention. A person with the Flu can expose the virus to other people as far as 6 feet away through droplets spread when they talk, sneeze or cough. If you happen to inhale these droplets or they land on your nose or mouth you are now infected.

Strengthen Your Immune System – Practice healthy living habits like exercising, getting a good night of sleep, staying hydrated, eating a healthy diet with lots of fruits and vegetables and managing stress. All these habits will help strengthen your immune system naturally and can help you ward off not just a cold or flu but other diseases as well.

Hygiene – If you notice a co-worker or acquaintance appears to be sick, try to keep your distance. Don’t get unnecessarily close. Touching commonly used and contaminated surfaces like doorknobs or handles, keyboards or other digital devices, countertops, etc. can transfer the virus to your hands. Avoid touching your nose or mouth and wash your hands regularly with soap and water several times per day.

If you are sick, be considerate and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette by using a tissue to cover your mouth and nose and throw it away. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, not your hands. Don’t forget to wash your hands after. Consider using a face mask if you must be out in public and your symptoms include frequent coughing or sneezing.

Flu Shot – Each year, medical experts apply research regarding the most common strains to create a new vaccine for the year. Healthcare providers recommend getting a flu shot early in the season to prevent catching the flu. Getting your flu shot ahead of time will give your body time to strengthen its immune system against influenza.

Cold and Flu Treatment

With time and rest, most people recover from colds and the flu on their own. Over the counter medications can provide temporary relief from your symptoms and help you feel better. If you get either illness, stay home except to get medical care and avoid contact with other people to prevent spreading the disease.

There are antiviral drugs that can treat influenza. If you are a person with a higher risk of complications or you feel worried about your condition, contact your medical provider.

Warning Signs of a Flu Emergency

• fast, troubled breathing or shortness of breath
• chest or abdomen pain or pressure
• sudden dizziness
• strong and persistent vomiting
• sudden dizziness
• flu symptoms that improve but then return with fever or worsen

With Infants – In addition to the above symptoms, get medical help quickly if any of these symptoms occur:

• bluish skin color
• not waking up or interacting
• so irritable that they do not want to be held
• unable to eat or drink
• no tears when crying
• significantly fewer wet diapers than normal
• fever with a rash

For more information download this Flu Guide for Parents from the CDC.

Related

Influenza (flu) – Symptoms and causes

Overview

Influenza is a viral infection that attacks your respiratory system — your nose, throat and lungs. Influenza is commonly called the flu, but it’s not the same as stomach “flu” viruses that cause diarrhea and vomiting.

For most people, the flu resolves on its own. But sometimes, influenza and its complications can be deadly. People at higher risk of developing flu complications include:

• Young children under age 5, and especially those under 6 months
• Adults older than age 65
• Residents of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities
• Pregnant women and women up to two weeks after giving birth
• People with weakened immune systems
• Native Americans
• People who have chronic illnesses, such as asthma, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease and diabetes
• People who are very obese, with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher

Though the annual influenza vaccine isn’t 100% effective, it’s still your best defense against the flu.

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Symptoms

At first, the flu may seem like a common cold with a runny nose, sneezing and sore throat. But colds usually develop slowly, whereas the flu tends to come on suddenly. And although a cold can be a bother, you usually feel much worse with the flu.

Common signs and symptoms of the flu include:

• Fever
• Aching muscles
• Chills and sweats
• Headache
• Dry, persistent cough
• Shortness of breath
• Tiredness and weakness
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sore throat
• Eye pain
• Vomiting and diarrhea, but this is more common in children than adults

Related information

COVID-19 and flu: Similarities and differences

When to see a doctor

Most people who get the flu can treat themselves at home and often don’t need to see a doctor.

If you have flu symptoms and are at risk of complications, see your doctor right away. Taking antiviral drugs may reduce the length of your illness and help prevent more-serious problems.

If you have emergency signs and symptoms of the flu, get medical care right away. For adults, emergency signs and symptoms can include:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Ongoing dizziness
• Seizures
• Worsening of existing medical conditions
• Severe weakness or muscle pain

Emergency signs and symptoms in children can include:

• Difficulty breathing
• Blue lips
• Chest pain
• Dehydration
• Severe muscle pain
• Seizures
• Worsening of existing medical conditions

Causes

Influenza viruses travel through the air in droplets when someone with the infection coughs, sneezes or talks. You can inhale the droplets directly, or you can pick up the germs from an object — such as a telephone or computer keyboard — and then transfer them to your eyes, nose or mouth.

People with the virus are likely contagious from about a day before symptoms appear until about five days after they start. Children and people with weakened immune systems may be contagious for a slightly longer time.

Influenza viruses are constantly changing, with new strains appearing regularly. If you’ve had influenza in the past, your body has already made antibodies to fight that specific strain of the virus. If future influenza viruses are similar to those you’ve encountered before, either by having the disease or by getting vaccinated, those antibodies may prevent infection or lessen its severity. But antibody levels may decline over time.

Also, antibodies against influenza viruses you’ve encountered in the past may not protect you from new influenza strains that can be very different viruses from what you had before.

Risk factors

Factors that may increase your risk of developing the flu or its complications include:

• Age. Seasonal influenza tends to target children 6 months to 5 years old, and adults 65 years old or older.
• Living or working conditions. People who live or work in facilities with many other residents, such as nursing homes or military barracks, are more likely to develop the flu. People who are staying in the hospital are also at higher risk.
• Weakened immune system. Cancer treatments, anti-rejection drugs, long-term use of steroids, organ transplant, blood cancer or HIV/AIDS can weaken your immune system. This can make it easier for you to catch the flu and may also increase your risk of developing complications.
• Chronic illnesses. Chronic conditions, including lung diseases such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, nervous system diseases, metabolic disorders, an airway abnormality, and kidney, liver or blood disease, may increase your risk of influenza complications.
• Race. Native American people may have an increased risk of influenza complications.
• Aspirin use under age 19. People who are younger than 19 years of age and receiving long-term aspirin therapy are at risk of developing Reye’s syndrome if infected with influenza.
• Pregnancy. Pregnant women are more likely to develop influenza complications, particularly in the second and third trimesters. Women are more likely to develop influenza-related complications up to two weeks after delivering their babies.
• Obesity. People with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more have an increased risk of flu complications.

Complications

If you’re young and healthy, the flu usually isn’t serious. Although you may feel miserable while you have it, the flu usually goes away in a week or two with no lasting effects. But children and adults at high risk may develop complications that may include:

• Pneumonia
• Bronchitis
• Asthma flare-ups
• Heart problems
• Ear infections
• Acute respiratory distress syndrome

Pneumonia is one of the most serious complications. For older adults and people with a chronic illness, pneumonia can be deadly.

Prevention

Flu vaccines at Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic offers flu shots in Arizona, Florida and Minnesota.

Learn more about how to get your flu shot at Mayo Clinic

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends annual flu vaccination for everyone age 6 months or older. The flu vaccine can reduce your risk of the flu and its severity and lower the risk of having serious illness from the flu and needing to stay in the hospital.

Flu vaccination is especially important this season because the flu and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cause similar symptoms. Flu vaccination could reduce symptoms that might be confused with those caused by COVID-19. Preventing the flu and reducing the severity of flu illness and hospitalizations could also lessen the number of people needing to stay in the hospital.

Each year’s seasonal flu vaccine provides protection from the three or four influenza viruses that are expected to be the most common during that year’s flu season. This year, the vaccine will be available as an injection and as a nasal spray.

In recent years, there was concern that the nasal spray vaccine wasn’t effective enough against certain types of flu. However, the nasal spray vaccine is expected to be effective in the 2020-2021 season. The nasal spray still isn’t recommended for some groups, such as pregnant women, children between 2 and 4 years old with asthma or wheezing, and people who have compromised immune systems.

If you have an egg allergy, you can still get a flu vaccine.

Mayo Clinic Minute: Why getting vaccinated for the flu is doubly important this season

Controlling the spread of infection

The influenza vaccine isn’t 100% effective, so it’s also important to take several measures to reduce the spread of infection, including:

• Wash your hands. Washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is an effective way to prevent many common infections. Or use alcohol-based hand sanitizers if soap and water aren’t available.
• Avoid touching your face. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes. Cough or sneeze into a tissue or your elbow. Then wash your hands.
• Clean surfaces. Regularly clean often-touched surfaces to prevent spread of infection from touching a surface with the virus on it and then your face.

• Avoid crowds. The flu spreads easily wherever people gather — in child care centers, schools, office buildings, auditoriums and public transportation. By avoiding crowds during peak flu season, you reduce your chances of infection.

  Also avoid anyone who is sick. And if you’re sick, stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone so that you lessen your chance of infecting others.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, both COVID-19 and the flu may be spreading at the same time. Your local health department and the CDC may suggest other precautions to reduce your risk of COVID-19 or the flu. For example, you may need to practice social distancing (physical distancing) and stay at least 6 feet (2 meters) from others outside your household. You may also need to wear a cloth face mask when around people outside your household.

Dec. 19, 2020

Differences between a Cold, the Flu, and Allergies

Do you have a Cold, the Flu, or Allergies?

The above table details the symptom differences between all three conditions.

The common symptoms of a cold, flu and allergies are a stuffy or a runny nose, sneezing, a sore throat, a cough, a headache, or even fatigue. Two differing symptoms are a fever or aches/pain, these would not be caused by allergies, but could be due to a cold or the flu. Symptoms of the flu are often more severe than a cold.

While the symptoms are similar, the origin of the conditions are different. A cold and the flu are both caused by different viruses, whereas allergies are caused by your immune system reacting to a trigger. Common inhalant allergy triggers are pollen, dust, mold, pet dander.

See related: Is it a cold? Or is it Allergies?

Occurrence:

Another key difference is when and how often patients have these conditions. A cold can be caught 3 or 4 times a year, where as patients are likely only to get the flu once. Allergies are a whole different story, allergies reccur seasonally and repeatedly.

Since external triggers cause allergies, what you are allergic to determines when you begin to feel these symptoms. Those who are allergic to grass and trees are more likely to suffer in the spring, whereas ragweed pollen affects allergy sufferers in the fall. Those who have indoor triggers, like dust, mold, or pet dander, may experience symptoms year round when they are in contact with the allergy trigger.

Prevention:

No one likes getting sick, for common cold prevention patients should practice good handwashing habits, avoid people who have a cold and avoid spreading germs. The CDC recommends everyone over 6 months of age get the influenza vaccine. Allergy symptoms can be prevented by controlling your environment and avoiding triggers when possible.

Treatment:

If you have a cold, we recommend rest, drink lots of fluids, and treat your symptoms until they subside. If you have the flu, you can receive an antiviral drug 24-48 hours after you’ve begun experiencing symptoms. Allergies are treated with avoidance methods, medication to control the symptoms, and allergy shots to treat the cause.

Understanding the differences between these conditions can help you get the treatment you need quickly. If your symptoms return at the same time every year, you may have allergies. We recommend getting an allergy test to identify what allergies you may have.

Talk to your doctor, or schedule an appointment with one of our board-certified allergists today.

Cold or Allergies: Which is Behind Your Sneeze?

The symptoms are similar, but a few key clues can tell you which disease you’re dealing with.

Posted
by Featured Provider April Kolb on Wednesday, December 2, 2020

Coughing. Sneezing. Stuffy, runny nose. Fatigue and weakness. When these symptoms hit, you’re miserable and in search of relief.

You might assume it’s just a cold and reach for the cold meds. You might be wrong.

Yeah, these are the main symptoms of the common cold. But they’re also symptoms of seasonal allergies. Outside of cold and flu season, it’s hard to know the difference.

So how can I tell the difference between a cold and allergies?

Cold and allergy symptoms mirror each other, but they result from very different immune responses. The common cold is a virus. Seasonal allergies are your body’s response to exposure to allergens like pollen, grass, mold, dust and ragweed. While symptoms overlap, there are some that are distinct to each condition.

Common Cold and Seasonal Allergy Symptoms

“It can be difficult to tell the difference — even for providers — because a lot of the typical symptoms overlap between the two,” says April Kolb, DO, family physician at The Iowa Clinic’s Waukee location on Alice’s Road.

More than half of cold and allergy symptoms are shared, but a few can clue you into which one is afflicting you. If you have general body aches and pains, cough up mucus or are running a fever along with your other issues, a cold is the culprit. If your eyes are watering and your nose is too, your allergies are acting up.

Sorting through the symptoms is not always simple. When your mix of symptoms is too confusing to figure out, look instead at when they hit and how long they last. Symptoms that come on suddenly and generally happen at certain times of the year are most likely due to seasonal allergies. And they may last for several weeks until the pollen count or your exposure to allergens drops. A cold can last just as long, but most pass after three to 10 days. Cold symptoms also tend to come on gradually, developing one at a time over the course of a few days.

“Typically allergies last longer than cold symptoms do. Symptoms lingering for one to two weeks or more are consistent with allergies,” Dr. Kolb says.

Not Sure Which Bug Is Bugging You?

Let your doctor decide the best route to relief.

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I feel terrible! What treatments stop a cold or seasonal allergies?

You’ve probably heard the phrase, “There’s no cure for the common cold.” The same can be said for seasonal allergies. Like the cold virus, you have to wait it out and let the condition run its course. Depending on the length and severity of that particular allergy season, that can be a long, agonizing wait.

While you can’t stop a cold or allergies once they start, you don’t have to suffer for weeks until things pass. You can manage your cold and allergy symptoms with some tried-and-true remedies or over-the-counter medications.

Common Cold Treatments

Colds can be over before you know it. By the time symptoms drag you down, the virus could be on its way out. For colds that linger, the most common treatments are:

• Rest – Take it easy to help with the fatigue and weakness, and let your immune system do its job. Rest is always a good idea when you’re fighting a bug, so enjoy the extra z’s.
• Pain relievers and fever reducers – Acetaminophen is best for relieving cold symptoms. Take some Tylenol for any aches and pains. Ibuprofen and naproxen work better if you have a fever and also help relieve sore throat and body aches.
• Decongestants and nasal sprays – Over-the-counter cold medications help your runny, stuffy nose by drying out and clearing up your nasal passages and postnasal drip. They may come as a pill, spray or rinse.
• Cough suppressants – A cough is productive. It’s your body’s way of clearing mucus and germs from your throat and lungs. But if your cough is interfering with your sleep or severely affecting your day, cough syrup can provide temporary relief.
• Water – Yep, good ol’ H₂O! Water also helps with congestion and allows your mucus to flow freely. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and caffeine to stay hydrated until your cold is gone. And if a sore throat accompanies your cold, gargle warm salt water to soothe it.

Seasonal Allergy Treatments

Since symptoms overlap, treatments do, too. Rest, water and decongestants all help manage allergy symptoms. There are several other remedies specific to seasonal allergies that can help you function. The best way to relieve allergy symptoms is to use a combination of these treatments:

• Avoidance – It isn’t easy, but avoiding your allergy triggers is the best way to avoid their effects. If you aren’t exposed in the first place, you won’t experience the symptoms. For example stay indoors and close windows if pollen counts and outdoor irritants are high.
• Antihistamines – This drug comes in pill or nasal spray form. It blocks the chemical released by your immune system, reducing sneezing, congestion, runny nose and itchy, watery eyes. Some medications combine antihistamines and decongestants to get rid of even more symptoms.
• Saline rinses and sprays – Like with a sore throat, salt water can provide relief in your nasal passages. Use a squeeze bottle or neti pot with your own solution or buy an over-the-counter spray bottle to dry and clear out your nose. Nasal steroid sprays like Flonase or Nasacort can provide quick and long-lasting allergy relief.

Nothing’s working. Is there anything else that can relieve my symptoms?

Yes, there’s more. Any time your symptoms last longer than expected or are still unbearable after trying at-home treatments, you should visit your primary care provider.

“There are subtle differences between the two in physical exam findings. Your provider will conduct a physical exam and ask about the type, duration and severity of your symptoms to determine if allergies or a viral illness is more likely,” Dr. Kolb says.

With a cold, you can manage the symptoms until it runs its course. Get checked out if your cough, sore throat, congestion or headaches don’t go away after 10 to 14 days, or if you develop worsening symptoms like chest pain, severe sore throat, ear pain, or shortness of breath. A lingering or worsening cold can lead to other issues, like a sinus infection, or be something else entirely.

Allergies have many more treatments than what you can get at your local pharmacy. Prescription pills, nasal sprays and allergy shots can provide relief when over-the-counter medications can’t. Some provide more immediate symptom relief; others should be taken for the long haul to keep ahead of the shifting seasons.

If your allergy symptoms haven’t improved in two or three weeks, discuss your symptoms with your doctor. They can identify prescription-strength allergy medications that can help or refer you to an allergist to find the best solution for you.

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April Kolb, DO joined The Iowa Clinic because of its reputation for excellent patient care. She comes to the clinic from the Family Medicine Residency program at Broadlawns in Des Moines.

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Sniffles, sneezing and cough? How to tell if it’s a simple allergy rather than The Virus

We’re told to stay home if we feel unwell during the COVID-19 pandemic. But what if your sniffles, sore throat or cough aren’t infectious? What if they’re caused by hayfever or another allergic reaction? You may be doing a lot more isolating than you need to.

Although it can sometimes be challenging, there are ways to tell apart respiratory symptoms caused by a virus and those caused by an allergy. This approach may help prevent Australia’s COVID-19 testing capacity from being overwhelmed.

Read more:
Health Check: what’s the right way to blow your nose?

What causes hayfever?

Around one in five (21%) of Australians suffer seasonal allergic rhinitis – more commonly known as hayfever. If each of these experiences a few episodes of hayfever annually, that would require between 10 million and 20 million COVID-19 tests to exclude infectious causes from allergies alone.

Hayfever has many of the same symptoms as viral respiratory infections, such as colds and mild flu-like illnesses, as well as COVID-19. This is because rhinitis refers to inflammation of the nose, which has many causes.

Hayfever is caused by your nose and/or eyes coming into contact with microscopic allergens in the environment, such as pollens (from grasses, weeds or trees), dust mites, moulds and animal hair.

Your immune system identifies these airborne substances as harmful and produces antibodies against them. The next time you come into contact with them, these antibodies signal your immune system to release chemicals such as histamine into your bloodstream, causing the inflammation that leads to hayfever symptoms.

Hayfever traditionally has a seasonal spike in late winter and spring, when pollen counts are highest from flowering trees and grass seeds.

But in many areas of Australia, there may be more hayfever in autumn, due to two common sources of allergies: moulds, and an autumn spike in indoor dust mites.

A warming climate has also been linked with increased levels of pollens and environmental allergens, and a rise in asthma and hayfever severity.

What are the symptoms?

Whether you have seasonal hayfever, longer-term perennial or vasomotor rhinitis), or a viral infection, you’re likely to have similar cold and flu-like symptoms.

You’ll have either a runny or stuffy nose. Other symptoms include sore throat; sneezing; cough; post-nasal drip – nasal mucus going down the back of your throat; and fatigue.

But there are two classic hayfever symptoms that can help you tell allergies and viruses apart. Hayfever can cause you to have an itchy nose or throat; and when it’s more severe it can cause swollen, blue-coloured skin under the eyes (called allergic shiners).

Dark circles under your eyes can be a classic symptom of hayfever.
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Can we tell them apart?

Fever, sore muscles or muscle weakness

Hayfever, despite its name, does not cause increased body temperature. Flu-like illnesses do cause fever, and sore muscles (myalgia), malaise and fatigue.

Allergies such as hayfever may cause a slight malaise without the other symptoms, probably due to a stuffy nose and poor sleep.

Snoring, dark circles under the eyes and sleep

The nasal congestion from hayfever and other types of rhinitis often increases the potential to snore during sleep. And if you have those dark circles under the eyes, that’s likely down to chronic poor-quality sleep, as nasal congestion and snoring worsen.

Itchy nose and eyes, plus sneezing

An itchy nose and eyes are classic hayfever symptoms, as is intense, prolonged sneezing.

You can sneeze with a cold or flu, but usually only in the first few days of the infection.

Longer-lasting symptoms

Allergic reactions tend to come and go from day to day, or even from hour to hour, particularly if some environments are the source of the offending allergens. Perennial rhinitis can be present for weeks or months, far longer than any viral cold or flu.

It is rare for a cold to last more than a week, as the body has fought off the virus by that time. Exceptions to this are the cough and sinus symptoms that were triggered by the virus but persist for other reasons.

Antihistamines

If your nasal symptoms improve with antihistamine medication, then you likely have an allergy or hayfever. Antihistamines do not alleviate symptoms of the common cold.

However, if your allergic reaction is more severe, antihistamines alone, even in larger doses than stated on the packet, may be insufficient to fully control symptoms, and a variety of nasal sprays may have to be added to the treatment.

Read more:
Coronavirus or just a common cold? What to do when your child gets sick this winter

Why do we need to differentiate viral from allergic causes?

In “normal” times we usually treat the symptoms of viral infections. However, amid the COVID-19 outbreak we need a clearer picture of what might be causing our symptoms so we get tested when it matters, and not for undiagnosed hayfever.

But it’s not easy to tell viral and allergic rhinitis apart. People with hayfever also get viral colds and flus, further complicating the picture.

If you think your symptoms may be due to allergy, it is safe to try a double dose of non-sedating antihistamine. Sedating antihistamines should be avoided in young children, and taken with caution in adults. If your symptoms improve significantly within an hour, your symptoms are likely hayfever or another allergic reaction.

However, if your symptoms are different to previous hayfever episodes, or your symptoms don’t improve after taking an antihistamine, that’s another matter. Stay at home until you can get tested for COVID-19.

Anyone with only partially treated and controlled hayfever will need to realise that your sniffles and sneezes are going to be distressing to your fellow commuter, diner or shopper. So you may need some medical assistance to more fully manage your allergic condition.

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Coronavirus symptoms: how to tell if you have a common cold, flu or Covid | Coronavirus

With winter approaching, the UK is entering the traditional seasons for colds and flu, with the additional complication this year that symptoms of those two illnesses can be broadly similar to those experienced by people who have caught the coronavirus and may be at risk of spreading it.

The NHS in England has produced online Covid-19 advice and a guide to differentiate between the three types of illnesses, which health experts hope will make it clearer to people whether they have an illness they would have most likely brushed aside last year, but which this year might lead them to think they need to self-isolate or seek to have a coronavirus test.

If you are in any doubt and are concerned about your wellbeing or the health of someone you are caring for, you should seek medical assistance in the UK by dialling 111 or by following the Covid-19 advice on the NHS website. The NHS says that if you have any of the main symptoms of Covid-19 you should obtain a test as soon as possible and self-isolate.

Coronavirus or Covid-19

The most common symptoms of coronavirus or Covid-19 are a fever – a temperature of 37.8C (100F) – a new persistent cough (usually dry), and a loss of their sense of taste and/or smell. Patients may also sometimes suffer from fatigue, aches and pains, sore throat, headaches and shortness of breath. Diarrhoea and a runny or stuffy nose are rare. The NHS says symptoms can range from mild to severe.

Colds

The most common symptoms of a cold are sneezing, aches and pains, a runny or stuffy nose and sore throat. A mild cough can be experienced. There is sometimes fatigue, and it is rare to experience a fever or headaches. Colds do not cause diarrhoea. The NHS states that with a cold there is usually a gradual onset of symptoms.

Flu

Flu most commonly consists of a fever, fatigue, a dry cough, aches and pains and headaches. Patients will sometimes experience a runny or stuffy nose or a sore throat. Diarrhoea can sometimes occur in children. There is usually no sneezing with flu, but a severe shortness of breath can develop, and the NHS notes there is usually a rapid onset of symptoms.

• Due to the unprecedented and ongoing nature of the coronavirus outbreak, this article is being regularly updated to ensure that it reflects the current situation as best as possible. The most recent update will have been made at the date shown at the top of the article. Any significant corrections made to this or previous versions of the article will continue to be footnoted below in line with Guardian editorial policy.

This article was amended on 19 September 2020 to include a loss of taste and/or smell as a common symptom of people with coronavirus.

90,000 Coronavirus, flu, colds: how to understand what you are sick with? | World Events – Estimates and Forecasts from Germany and Europe | DW

At the first stage, the symptoms of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus can be easily confused with the manifestations of influenza. In most cases, both diseases are accompanied by fever, cough, joint aches, and headache. Sometimes these symptoms are accompanied by a runny nose, weakness, and shortness of breath. But there are at least two signs, having discovered which, one can with considerable confidence assume that we are talking about a cold or flu, and not about a coronavirus: a sore throat and sneezing.

Both symptoms are signs of an upper respiratory tract infection. SARS-CoV-2 mainly affects the lower respiratory tract, and an infected person will mostly have a dry cough, shortness of breath and / or pneumonia, but not a sore throat.

Sneezing is a symptom of a cold, not a coronavirus

A sudden lack of smell and taste, in turn, is a very common symptom of COVID-19 and does not occur in the case of a flu or cold – even if a stuffy nose and sore throat to some extent and reduce sensitivity to odors and alter taste.

It is worth noting that the typical symptoms of coronavirus do not always appear – sometimes the disease can be asymptomatic.

How long is the incubation period for people infected with coronavirus?

According to the Robert Koch Names Institute, the incubation period for COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, lasts on average 5-6 days, although in some cases it can be up to 14 days. If mild symptoms or weakness appear, it is necessary to take sick leave and limit social contacts, and children should refuse to go to school and kindergarten.

The incubation period is often mild and asymptomatic. If you are unsure or anxious, call your healthcare provider or the COVID-19 Diagnostic Center. If necessary, you will be tested for coronavirus.

How is the coronavirus transmitted?

The SARS-CoV-2 virus is transmitted mainly by airborne droplets – by inhalation of virus-containing droplets or aerosols released when breathing, coughing, talking, singing or screaming. It is for this reason that one of the measures that reduce the risk of contracting coronavirus is maintaining a social distance of 1.5 meters.

Transmission of coronavirus outdoors is possible much less often

The risk of infection increases with prolonged stay in closed, small and poorly ventilated rooms. This is why regular and efficient ventilation is so important. Transmission of the virus in the open air is possible much less often – provided that the minimum distance between people of 1.5 meters is observed. It is also impossible to completely exclude the danger of contact transmission of the virus – especially if a person presumably infected with SARS-CoV-2 has touched the surfaces.

The most effective measures to reduce the possibility of contracting the coronavirus are still social distancing, hygiene practices, frequent and thorough hand washing, wearing protective masks, ventilating enclosed spaces, isolating SARS-CoV-2 infected people in a timely manner and establishing contact chains in patients with COVID-19.

Influenza or Cold: How to Distinguish

Even doctors sometimes find it difficult to distinguish the flu from the common cold based on symptoms.A cold usually starts with a sore throat and a runny nose, followed by a cough that can be dry or with phlegm. For several days, a person has a sore throat, a stuffy nose, a slightly fever, he feels weak and a headache.

Influenza, unlike a cold, manifests itself suddenly and immediately – “in full”: among its characteristic signs are headache, aching joints, dry cough, pain and wheezing in the throat, the temperature rises to 41 degrees and is often accompanied by chills.The patient experiences general weakness and falls asleep.

Symptoms of flu and colds are often similar.

Symptoms of a common cold subside after a few days and disappear completely in about a week. Influenza usually lasts longer: during the first week, the person is completely incapacitated, and it may take several weeks for a full recovery.

The German Standing Commission for Vaccinations (STIKO) advises everyone who is at increased risk of infection to get vaccinated against influenza every year.The risk group includes, in particular, those suffering from chronic diseases, pregnant women and people over 60 years of age. It also makes sense to vaccinate those who, due to professional necessity, constantly communicate with a large number of people (for example, medical workers and employees of public institutions).

When does it make sense to take antibiotics?

The causative agents of most colds and flu are viruses against which antibiotics are ineffective, so it makes no sense to take them in the treatment of such diseases.

Antibiotics act on bacteria in different ways: either by killing them or preventing them from spreading. In doing so, they attack the cell membrane or affect the metabolism of bacteria. Penicillins, for example, interfere with the synthesis of the cell walls of bacteria, and the walls are perforated, which leads to their rupture, and the bacterium dies.

Thus, taking antibiotics only makes sense when it comes to a bacterial infection. In some cases, it can develop against a viral background – bacteria enter the body through a weakened immune system, which leads to complications in the work of the whole body.Diseases such as pneumonia (pneumonia), tonsillitis, cystitis, meningitis are usually caused by bacteria, and the use of antibiotics in these cases is necessary.

See also:

• How the coronavirus changed the world

  Europe opened internal borders

  Since June 15, most EU member states have restored free movement within the European Union and the Schengen area. The restrictions imposed by the coronavirus pandemic in March this year have been lifted for all EU countries except Sweden.The unfavorable epidemiological situation there, which is the result of the Swedish “special path” in the fight against COVID-19, does not meet the EU’s criteria for opening internal borders.

• How the coronavirus changed the world

  The EU is saving its economy

  Brussels has allocated 500 billion euros to help the EU member states hardest hit by the effects of the pandemic. It is also planned to create a temporary Recovery Fund, the funds from which will be directed to the recovery of the European economy.

• How the coronavirus changed the world

  130 billion euros to support the German economy

  The German authorities also took measures to overcome the economic consequences of the coronavirus pandemic. The volume of the anti-crisis program for 2020-2021, approved by the German government, is 130 billion euros. By the end of the year, the VAT rate will be reduced in the country from 19% to 16%, families will be paid 300 euros for each child, and the industries affected by quarantine measures will be allocated up to 25 billion euros.

• How the coronavirus changed the world

  The Corona-Warn-App will track contacts with patients with coronavirus

  The official Corona-Warn-App has appeared in Germany, warning of the possible danger of coronavirus infection. It will record the movement of smartphone owners and notify them of contact with a person infected with SARS-CoV-2, which will help track and break the chains of virus infections. You can download the application from the Google Play Store and Apple Store.

• How the coronavirus changed the world

  Oscars postponed, Eurovision canceled

  Due to the coronavirus pandemic, events planned for 2020 have been canceled or postponed around the world. The Academy Awards ceremony has been postponed from February 28 to April 25. Most film companies were forced to discontinue production of films. The canceled Eurovision 2020 contest took place in the form of online concerts.

• How the coronavirus changed the world

  Olympics and European Football Championship – no earlier than 2021

  The Olympic Games in Tokyo and the European Football Championship also fell victim to the coronavirus: both events were postponed to 2021.The IOC tried for a long time to save the Olympics, but in the end was forced to postpone it. A similar decision was made at UEFA at a meeting of representatives of 55 national football federations that are members of the European football union.

• How the coronavirus changed the world

  Coronavirus is not an obstacle to the parade in Russia

  Despite the unfavorable epidemiological situation in the Russian Federation, the coronavirus did not become a reason for canceling the parade on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of Victory. By decree of Vladimir Putin, the event will take place on June 24 – the day the parade was held in the capital in 1945.The referendum on amendments to the constitution, scheduled for July 1, has not been canceled in the country either. WHO warns Russia against holding both events.

• How the coronavirus changed the world

  Tunisia announced victory over coronavirus

  Tunisia became the first country to declare complete victory over coronavirus. Prime Minister Elias Fakhfah said the possibility of a second wave was minimal, although he urged citizens to remain vigilant. Tunisian authorities intend to open borders on June 27.Tourists arriving in the country will have to provide a certificate of a negative coronavirus test.

• How the coronavirus changed the world

  There is a new outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 in Beijing

  Despite the fact that in many countries the number of SARS-CoV-2 infections is declining, the danger of a second wave is not excluded. So, in the PRC, an outbreak of COVID-19 was again recorded, the number of cases exceeded 100 people. The Xinfadi food market has become a new focus. The Beijing authorities have limited the capital’s road connections to other parts of the country to reduce the risk of the spread of the disease.

• How the coronavirus changed the world

  When will the coronavirus vaccine appear?

  The world hopes for a vaccine against the coronavirus. The number of laboratories working on its creation is large. Scientists already have several vaccine options, they are being tested on animals. Germany, France, Italy and the Netherlands have united in an alliance in order to jointly provide all EU countries with a vaccine after the creation of the drug. But, apparently, the vaccine will appear on the market no earlier than mid-2021.

  Author: Marina Baranovskaya

90,000 ARI, ARVI, influenza – what’s the difference?

What is the difference between influenza and ARVI and ARI?

The symptoms of these diseases are indeed very similar. Let’s figure out what the difference is.

It is a mistake to believe that ARI is an outdated abbreviation for ARVI. Acute respiratory disease , which is ARI , occurs on the initiative of viruses and mycoplasma infections (mycoplasma is a unicellular microorganism).The main provocateurs of ARVI are viruses and bacteria. ARVI stands for acute respiratory viral infection . ARI includes ARVI.

ARVI is a more accurate diagnosis, which, as we said above, speaks of the viral nature of the disease. The doctor can distinguish a viral infection from a bacterial infection by the appearance of the throat: the infection will manifest itself as red streaks, while the sputum usually remains transparent. Acute respiratory infections caused by a bacterial infection will cover the laryngeal mucosa with white wear, the sputum will acquire a greenish-yellow color.

ARVI is the most widespread group of infectious diseases in the world, which includes influenza.

What is the symptomatic difference between influenza and acute respiratory infections?

ARI develops slowly, the flu manifests itself quite suddenly and the patient’s condition deteriorates sharply.

With acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory viral infections, one should not always expect an increase in temperature. In some cases, it may not exist at all. If the body temperature does rise, then this happens gradually, which cannot be said about the flu.Its sign is a sharp increase in temperature, up to 40 C, and during the first a bit. It can be difficult to bring down this temperature with conventional antipyretic drugs.

Already at 7-8 ducks after the first symptoms of acute respiratory viral infections or acute respiratory infections, a person fully recovers and recovers quite quickly. But the flu is not only more difficult to tolerate, but is also a more prolonged illness, the signs of which can be observed within 2 weeks. It will take at least a week to recover from an illness.

Headache and body aches, photophobia, fever, dry cough – everyone who was diagnosed with the flu went through this.

Influenza can provoke pneumonia, affect the ENT organs (sinusitis, tonsillitis, otitis media). Chronic human diseases contribute to the development of complications. Properly selected treatment will help to avoid serious consequences. It is important to see a doctor promptly.

Rhinitis: symptoms and treatment

Rhinitis is an inflammation of the nasal mucosa.This disease is known to everyone as the common cold. This is a collective term for inflammation arising from various causes:

• Infections, usually viral (ARVI, ARI).
• Allergic reactions to the ingress of substances causing it to the mucous membrane.
• Vasomotor rhinitis is a consequence of a disturbed, excessive response to habitual stimuli: cold or dry air, dust, tiny droplets of household chemicals, etc. One of the most common causes of vasomotor rhinitis, its atrophic form, is improper use of drops and sprays against the common cold.
• Post-traumatic rhinitis, which occurs as a result of damage to the mucous membrane by traumatic factors (blows, scratching).

Rhinitis can be:

• acute – begins abruptly, passes after the causative factor is cured or eliminated. This is how infectious and allergic rhinitis occurs most often.
• chronic – lasts for years, then subsides, again giving an exacerbation. This course is typical for vasomotor and traumatic rhinitis.

The mechanism of the formation of a cold

The inflammatory response in acute rhinitis passes through three stages.

1. Irritation stage. This is the very beginning of the disease, the first hours when the causative agent or allergen, the irritant only gets on the mucous membrane. This causes redness, swelling, and vasodilation. It is at this time that a person feels dry nose, irritation, tickling. Sneezing is still rare, there is almost no discharge or very little of it. Due to the fact that the nasal cavity is anatomically connected with the lacrimal canal, irritation affects the mucous membrane of the eye, they itch, watery, and a feeling of heaviness appears in them.At this time, the temperature may rise, malaise may appear, and the head may hurt (often in the frontal part). The duration of the dry stage is from several hours to 2 days.
2. Wet stage of serous discharge. The vessels are dilated, plasma seeps out of them, which becomes the basis for the formation of serous secretions. The mucous membrane swells, thickens, there is a feeling of nasal congestion, it becomes difficult to breathe. Nasal discharge intensifies, it literally flows in a stream – this is called rhinorrhea (literally, “flows from the nose”).The content and concentration of irritants (in particular sodium chloride) in the mucus increases, which leads to irritation of the wings of the nose, the skin around the entrance to the nose and in the area of ​​the upper lip. Sneezing is frequent. Due to edema of the mucous membrane, the perception of smell and taste is impaired. The general condition is quite serious: fever, weakness, sleep and appetite disturbances. This stage lasts from 3-4 days (with the infectious nature of the common cold) to several weeks and even months (vasomotor, allergic, traumatic rhinitis).
3. Stage of mucopurulent discharge. Against the background of treatment, and with infectious rhinitis as a result of the work of the immune system, the inflammation gradually subsides, the cells that have accumulated in large quantities in the mucus are rejected.

The secretion of mucus is reduced, it dries up, and a rather thick discharge of a greenish or yellow-green color appears. Gradually, the work of the mucous membrane normalizes, decreases, and then rhinorrhea disappears, breathing and smell are restored. The state of health improves, the phenomena of intoxication disappear.This stage lasts from 4-5 days to several weeks.

Causes of rhinitis

Infectious rhinitis occurs when infectious agents are introduced into the nasal mucosa. Their vital activity causes inflammation, which is manifested by local symptoms (itching, runny nose, sneezing, etc.) and general – headache, fever, that is, symptoms of intoxication.

Allergic rhinitis is an excessive response from the immune system when allergens get on the nasal mucosa. This is the so-called “respiratory allergy”, that is, occurring in the respiratory system.The immune system recognizes allergens, and since they are “strangers” for it, it sends cells to the meeting place with the stranger, which destroy it. This process is accompanied by the release of histamine. It expands the capillaries, under its influence the mucous membrane swells, the production of mucus increases. All this is manifested by the symptoms of rhinitis.

Chronic rhinitis is formed either as a complication of acute – for example, with frequent recurrent rhinitis, or with improper use of drops from a cold – longer than the days indicated in the instructions or too frequent instillation, an atrophic form of chronic rhinitis may also develop.A person becomes literally addicted to drops: he is forced to bury them very often, otherwise the rhinorrhea will be abundant, and the sense of smell will practically disappear.

Rhinitis after trauma is associated with disorders of the mucous membrane and blood vessels, as well as with hypertrophy – proliferation of the mucous membrane, the formation of polyps. The reason for such changes is a violation of the anatomical shape of the nose and nasal passages, changes at the level of physiology.

Symptoms and complaints with different types of rhinitis

Symptoms of acute infectious rhinitis are familiar to many:

• Malaise, weakness, increased fatigue.
• Increased body temperature. With the flu, it can rise sharply, quickly, practically from the first hours after infection. With other types of SARS, the fever may be mild.
• Headache.
• Sneezing. As a rule, sneezing occurs at the onset of the disease more often than at the stage of rhinitis subsiding.
• Rhinorrhea. Depending on the stage of the disease, the severity of inflammation, mucus from the nose can be released moderately or very abundantly.
• In the acute period, breathing through the nose is almost impossible, the person breathes through the mouth.Because of this, there is a lack of oxygen, which can manifest itself as drowsiness, rapid fatigue. Due to the drying out of the mucous membrane, you are often thirsty.
• Irritation of the mucous membrane of the eyes, itching, redness.
• Sensation of nasal congestion, sometimes bilateral, but more often on one side. Congestion is especially noticeable when lying down. In the supine position, it lays both nasal passages, in the lateral position – on the side on which the person lies. Sometimes the degree of congestion is so pronounced that people describe it “as if it was clogged with cement.”
• Obstruction of the ear, often with temporary narrowing of hearing. This is due to the fact that the mucous membrane of the Eustachian tube, which connects the pharynx and the ear, also swells with a cold. Due to the narrowing of the passage, filling it with mucus and congestion occurs.
• Pain in the area of ​​the sinuses due to swelling of their mucous membranes.
• Decreased sense of smell and taste. In acute infectious rhinitis, it is less common than in other types of rhinitis, and passes quickly.

Symptoms of allergic rhinitis

• Profuse nasal discharge.
• Sneezing, usually in the morning or evening. Sometimes it manifests itself as a semblance of an attack: a person sneezes several times in a row, then there is a short pause and another attack of sneezing. After 2-5 such episodes, the attack stops.
• Severe itching in the nose. Sometimes it “descends” to the nasopharynx. There is a very interesting one that was first noticed by pediatricians: in order to reduce the severity of itching, people with allergic rhinitis run several times with the inner side of the palm along the tip of the nose from the bottom up. Because of this, the tip of the nose looks inflamed, there may be scuffs or scratches on it, and a transverse fold appears on the bridge of the nose.This symptom has been called “allergic salute”, and this movement actually helps to somewhat reduce the intensity of the itching.
• Severe nasal congestion, usually on both sides.
• Noisy, sucking in air, puffing nasal breathing.
• Breathing through the mouth.
• Changes the tone of the voice.
• Shortness of breath when talking on the go or at a fast pace.
• Cough.
• Deterioration of smell (more common with prolonged allergic rhinitis without adequate treatment).
• Feeling of water in the ears, especially when swallowing.
• Decreased sleep quality.

Vasomotor rhinitis: symptoms

• Profuse mucus flow. Moreover, it begins immediately after exposure to an irritating factor.
• Frequent sneezing, also sudden.
• Alternating stuffing of the nose from one side to the other.
• Irritation of the nasopharynx and coughing from profuse mucus.
• There may be a headache.
• Decreased sense of smell, usually in the midst of rhinorrhea.

Traumatic rhinitis is accompanied by symptoms similar to vasomotor. Sometimes pain at the site of injury is added to them – constant or periodic. However, if this is a long-term violation of the anatomy of the nose or airways, such as with congenital curvature of the nasal septum, then there is no pain.

Acute and chronic rhinitis: treatment

With primary complaints of a runny nose, patients turn to a therapist.Further, depending on the diagnosis, they are referred to an otorhinolaryngologist, an allergist, or continue treatment with a therapist, and an ENT surgeon deals with the treatment of post-traumatic rhinitis. Diagnosis of rhinitis, as a rule, is not difficult and allows you to establish the causes of the common cold with a sufficiently high accuracy. Depending on the etiology, that is, the reasons for the development of rhinitis, treatment is prescribed.

The state of health with rhinitis does not suffer much, but if it is accompanied by symptoms of intoxication, high fever, then it is better not to be heroic, but to take sick leave, to reduce physical and psycho-emotional stress.

The room needs to be ventilated and humidified often: due to a runny nose, a person does not have enough oxygen, and due to low humidity, mucous membranes dry out and rhinitis intensifies.

Nasal lavage may be recommended. You should not use the methods of traditional medicine for this: the wrong method of absorbing water by the nose can lead to severe otitis media, which is much more difficult to treat than a runny nose. In pharmacies, nasal irrigators, sprays with sea water or saline are sold, and they perfectly cleanse the mucous from germs and dead cells.

For nasal congestion, vasoconstrictor drops and nasal sprays (decongestants) can be used. They regulate the tone of blood vessels, which reduces the severity of edema, facilitates nasal breathing. One of the nasal decongestants recommended in clinical practice is Xymelin Eco. Its active ingredient xylometazoline has long been proven to be effective and safe when used correctly. One of the advantages of Xymelin Eco spray is the duration of action, up to 12 hours. This allows you to use the drug 1-2 times a day or only during sleep.And like other nasal vasoconstrictor drugs, you can use drops or spray for the treatment of rhinitis Xymelin for no more than 10 days in a row for adults.

For allergic rhinitis, rhinitis medications with corticosteroids and / or antihistamines may be prescribed. With chronic rhinitis, not only drug treatment is carried out, but measures are also taken to limit contact with irritating substances. Injuries to the nose are corrected surgically: sometimes plastic surgery of the nose or septum is the only way to get rid of a runny nose.

Vasomotor rhinitis, symptoms and treatment in adults of this form is a rather long process. It is difficult and time-consuming to treat it, and its formation is associated with improper use of decongestants. You have to give up the drops and endure nasal congestion and endless runny nose, this causes certain psychosocial difficulties. Corticosteroid drops are prescribed, and in advanced cases, rhinitis can only be cured surgically: excision of the mucosa with ultrasound or laser, or vasotomy (dissection of the vascular connections between the mucous membrane and the periosteum of the turbinates).

Physiotherapeutic procedures can be used according to the doctor’s prescription: inhalations, including herbal remedies, UHF, diathermic currents.

Prevention of rhinitis (runny nose)

There is no specific prophylaxis for rhinitis. To increase the body’s resistance to infectious diseases, you can apply hardening, go in for sports. How to get rid of allergic rhinitis? This may require not only treatment, but compliance with the anti-allergic regime at home, at work (do not use household chemicals, remove carpets and textiles, do not have animals, leave during the flowering of allergenic plants, etc.).P.).

During epidemics of acute respiratory viral infections, irrigation of the nasal mucosa with moisturizing drops or sprays can be used as a prophylaxis. They normalize the work of the mucous membrane, wash away microorganisms and dust particles that have fallen on it.

3-4 irrigations are enough during the working day and after returning home.

There are contraindications. It is necessary to consult a specialist.

90,000 Coronavirus, flu, colds: how to understand what you are sick with?

Fever, cough, weakness, headache – at the first stage, the symptoms of coronavirus, flu and cold are so similar that the diseases are difficult to distinguish.But there are still differences.

At the first stage of the disease, the symptoms of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus can be easily confused with the manifestations of influenza. In most cases, this is a fever, dry cough, loss of taste and smell. Sometimes infection is accompanied by a runny nose, headache, muscle pain, weakness, and shortness of breath. But there are at least two primary symptoms, having found which, it can be assumed with considerable certainty that we are talking about a cold or flu, and not about a coronavirus: a sore throat and sneezing.

Both symptoms are signs of an upper respiratory tract infection. SARS-CoV-2 mainly affects the lower respiratory tract, and an infected person will mostly have a dry cough, shortness of breath and / or pneumonia, but not a sore throat.

A sudden lack of smell and taste, in turn, is a very common symptom of COVID-19, and does not occur with the flu or cold – even if a stuffy nose and sore throat to some extent both reduce sensitivity to odors and alter taste.

These typical symptoms of coronavirus do not always appear – sometimes the disease can be asymptomatic.

How long is the incubation period for people infected with coronavirus?

According to the Robert Koch Names Institute, the incubation period of the disease caused by coronavirus lasts on average 5-6 days, although in some cases it can be up to 14 days. If mild symptoms or weakness appear, it is necessary to take sick leave and limit social contacts, and children should refuse to go to school and kindergarten.

The incubation period is often mild and asymptomatic. If you are unsure or anxious, call your healthcare provider or the COVID-19 Diagnostic Center. If necessary, you will be tested for coronavirus.

How is the coronavirus transmitted?

The SARS-CoV-2 virus is transmitted mainly by airborne droplets – by inhalation of virus-containing droplets or aerosols released when breathing, coughing, talking, singing or screaming.It is for this reason that one of the measures that reduce the risk of contracting coronavirus is maintaining a social distance of 1.5 meters.

The risk of infection increases with prolonged stay in closed, small and poorly ventilated rooms. That is why regular and efficient ventilation is so important. Transmission of the virus in the open air is possible much less often – provided that the minimum distance between people of 1.5 meters is observed. It is also impossible to completely exclude the danger of contact transmission of the virus – especially if a person presumably infected with SARS-CoV-2 has touched the surfaces.

The most effective measures to reduce the possibility of contracting coronavirus are still social distancing, hygiene, frequent and thorough hand washing, wearing protective masks, ventilating closed spaces, quickly and timely isolation of people infected with SARS-CoV-2 and establishing contact chains in patients with COVID-19.

Influenza or Cold: How to Distinguish

Even doctors sometimes find it difficult to distinguish the flu from the common cold based on symptoms.A cold usually starts with a sore throat and a runny nose, followed by a cough that can be dry or with phlegm. For several days, a person has a sore throat, a stuffy nose, a slightly fever, he feels weak and a headache.

Influenza, unlike a cold, manifests itself suddenly and immediately – “in full”: among its characteristic signs are headache, aching joints, dry cough, pain and wheezing in the throat, the temperature rises to 41 degrees and is often accompanied by chills …The patient experiences general weakness and falls asleep.

The common cold symptoms subside after a few days and disappear completely in about a week. Influenza usually lasts longer: during the first week, the person is completely incapacitated, and it may take several weeks for a full recovery.

The German Standing Commission for Vaccinations (STIKO) advises everyone who is at increased risk of infection to get vaccinated against influenza every year.The risk group includes, in particular, those suffering from chronic diseases, pregnant women and people over 60 years of age. It also makes sense to vaccinate those who, due to professional necessity, constantly communicate with a large number of people (for example, medical workers and employees of public institutions).

When does it make sense to take antibiotics?

The causative agents of most colds and flu are viruses against which antibiotics are ineffective, so it makes no sense to take them in the treatment of such diseases.

Antibiotics act on bacteria in different ways: either by killing them or preventing them from spreading. In doing so, they attack the cell membrane or affect the metabolism of bacteria. Penicillins, for example, interfere with the synthesis of the cell walls of bacteria, and the walls are perforated, which leads to their rupture, and the bacterium dies.

Thus, taking antibiotics only makes sense when it comes to a bacterial infection.In some cases, it can develop against a viral background – bacteria enter the body through a weakened immune system, which leads to complications in the work of the whole body. Diseases such as pneumonia (pneumonia), tonsillitis, cystitis, meningitis are usually caused by bacteria, and the use of antibiotics in these cases is necessary.

90,000 how to distinguish an infectious process from an allergy?

Fomina Daria Sergeevna.Candidate of Medical Sciences, Head of the Center for Allergology and Immunology, Allergist-Immunologist:

It is difficult to tell the difference between infection and allergy on your own. Symptoms are similar: runny nose, watery and swollen eyes, you sneeze, cough, whistling wheezing is heard. Temperature (low) may be, but not necessary. Even if you suspect that you have developed an allergic reaction, in any case, you need to see a doctor – first, see a therapist. A competently collected anamnesis (history of the disease) will make it possible to establish a diagnosis.The patient can help the specialist with this, paying attention to the features of the manifestations of the disease.

Signs of allergic pathology:

• spring-summer period (typical for pollen allergy), but there may be year-round manifestations in case of allergy to animal hair, food;
• burning, itching of the mucous membrane of the eyes, swelling of the eyelids, lacrimation without fever, there may be a dry cough;
• deterioration of well-being when going outside, in contact with animals, in case of errors in the diet;

Signs of an infectious process:

• autumn-winter period;
• had contact with a sick person;
• cough;
• deterioration of well-being in the evening;
• severe symptoms of intoxication (fever, headache, weakness, body aches).

Runny nose, conjunctivitis with a cold disappear, as a rule, in a week. If treatment does not help and symptoms worsen, see your doctor again. If it is an allergy, and contact with the allergen continues, clinical manifestations will increase and can turn into a serious illness – bronchial asthma.

Fortunately, our hospital has a Center for Allergy and Immunology , whose specialists are well aware of how to help patients with various types of allergies.Therefore, see a doctor as soon as possible!

Consultation of an allergist-immunologist at the 52nd Hospital can be obtained at:

• According to the compulsory medical insurance policy – in the consultative and diagnostic department of the Center for Allergology and Immunology of the City Clinical Hospital No. 52 if there is a referral for a consultation. Appointment for consultation 8 (499) 196-45-65 .
• At the request of the patient – in the department of paid medical services. Sign up for a consultation 8 (495) 870-36-04 daily from 9:00 to 20:00 .

90,000 ARVI – description, symptoms, causes, treatment and prevention of ARVI

What is ARVI?

ARVI (acute respiratory viral infection) – a respiratory tract disease caused by the ingestion of a viral infection. Among the pathogens, the most common are influenza viruses, parainfluenza, adenoviruses and rhinoviruses.

The affected area of ​​ARVI includes – nose, paranasal sinuses, throat, larynx, trachea, bronchi, lungs.The conjunctiva (mucous membrane of the eye) is also under the “sight”.

ARVI disease is one of the most common infectious diseases. Most of all, children attending kindergarten and school are ill with it – up to 10 times a year. This is due to the not yet formed immunity, close contact with each other, lack of knowledge and / or unwillingness to comply with preventive measures to avoid infection. Other groups at risk are students, teachers, office workers, health workers and others.However, adults usually suffer less from acute respiratory diseases of viral etiology, which is associated with the formed immune system, as well as its resistance to these diseases due to other past diseases. However, even if an adult is not susceptible to the development of this infection in the body, and he does not have obvious signs of the disease, he may simply be a carrier of the infection, infecting everyone around him.

How is ARVI spread?

ARVI is transmitted mainly by airborne droplets (when sneezing, coughing, close conversation), but infection is possible through direct contact with the pathogen (kissing, shaking hands and further contact of the hands with the oral cavity) or contact with objects of the carrier of the infection (dishes, clothes).When a person picks up an infection, he immediately becomes a carrier. At the first signs of ARVI (general malaise, weakness, runny nose), the patient begins to infect everyone around him. As a rule, the first blow is taken by relatives, workers, people in transport. This is the reason for the recommendation – at the first signs of SARS, the patient should stay at home, and healthy people, if the media report an outbreak of this disease, avoid staying in crowded places (public transport, holiday gatherings on the street, etc.).etc.).

Incubation period and development of ARVI

During a person’s contact with an infection, the virus initially settles on the mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract (nose, nasopharynx, mouth), its potential victim. Further, the infection begins to secrete toxins that are absorbed into the circulatory system and are carried by the blood throughout the body. When the patient’s body temperature rises, this indicates that the infection has already entered the circulatory system and the protective functions of the body have turned on, i.e.because the increased temperature actually destroys the virus and its derivatives toxins.

The incubation period for acute respiratory viral infection is about 2 days, i.e. from getting the virus to the mucous membrane and until the first symptoms of the disease appear. At this time, a person may feel a slight malaise, irritability. Further, as infection progresses, the symptoms intensify.

After an illness, immunity does not develop resistance to ARVI, which is due to a large number of different viruses and their strains.Moreover, viruses are susceptible to mutation. This leads to the fact that an adult can get ARVI up to 4 times a year.

What is the difference between ARVI, ARI and colds?

Many people have many inaccuracies and ambiguities on this issue, therefore, let’s briefly go over the topic and find out how these terms differ.

ARVI is a disease of viral etiology, i.e. the cause of the disease is a viral infection.

ARI (acute respiratory disease) is the collective name for infectious diseases of the respiratory tract.It is used if the exact cause of the respiratory disease has not been established, i.e. the cause can be both a virus and a bacterium. The group of acute respiratory infections includes ARVI, influenza, parainfluenza, etc.

Colds is a colloquial term that means ARVI diseases.

Symptoms of ARVI

The onset of ARVI is characterized by symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, itchy nose, sneezing and redness of the eyes. In this case, the secreted mucous secret is liquid and transparent.

In a day, the secret becomes viscous and thick, and its color becomes yellowish or greenish. The body temperature begins to rise to 37.5-38 ° C, which indicates the beginning of the fight of the immune system against the infection.

Among other signs of acute respiratory viral infections are distinguished:

SARS in young children may be accompanied by:

Complications of ARVI

If during ARVI you do not take the necessary measures for its treatment, complications may develop, which are expressed in the development of the following diseases and conditions:

Causes of ARVI

The first factor that leads to ARVI disease, as noted above, is the ingestion of a viral infection into the body – influenza viruses (types A, B, C), parainfluenza, adenoviruses, rhinoviruses, reoviruses, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), enteroviruses (Coxsackie), coronaviruses and others.Many of them die during drying, disinfection, ultraviolet irradiation, infections such as adenoviruses and reoviruses are able to stay indoors for a long time without succumbing to the usual preventive measures.

The second factor that leads to the development of ARVI is a weakened immune system, which performs the protective functions of the body against those very infections.

The immune system is weakened mainly by:

• poor-quality nutrition – lack of vitamins and microelements in food, as well as the use of unhealthy and harmful food;
• hypothermia of the body;
• stresses that have a detrimental effect on the immune system no less than hypothermia of the body;

90,053 chronic diseases such as diabetes mellitus, ulcers, bronchitis, pneumonia, etc.;

• plentiful intake of various medications;
• unfavorable environmental conditions at the place of residence or work.

Diagnostics of ARVI

To diagnose “ARVI” requires a thorough laboratory study, which can take about a week, therefore, most often in the presence of the above symptoms, the diagnosis is made – ARI (Acute Respiratory Disease). This is also due to the fact that in a week, the patient, in the absence of complications, can already recover from ARVI.

The diagnosis of “ARVI” is usually made in the event that in a given region, i.e. the patient’s place of residence was quite a lot of other similar cases of the disease, and laboratory research was carried out earlier.

For the diagnosis of ARVI, the following examination methods are usually used:

• Examination of the patient;
• Immunofluorescence express diagnostics;
• Bacteriological research.

Additionally, an X-ray of the paranasal sinuses (sinuses) and chest can be prescribed.

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How to identify coronavirus, flu or cold by the first signs

Olga Sergeeva

24 March 2020, 17:47

What are the main differences between coronavirus infection, flu and common colds – disease symptoms compared by Rospotrebnadzor specialists. Remember them, so that after each “pcha” next to you do not faint, but know for what signs to urgently consult a doctor .

# Sneezing means not coronavirus

For coronavirus infection , fever and dry cough are characteristic. Sometimes there may be a sore throat, joints, headache, fatigue, shortness of breath. In rare cases, diarrhea and runny nose.

Sneezing is not at all typical for coronavirus and flu. This is one of the signs of colds . A cold will also be indicated by a runny nose, sore throat, and joint pain. There may be a minor cough.In rare cases, fever and headache. Sometimes fatigue.

Shortness of breath is not included in the symptoms of colds and flu. Symptoms of flu include fever, dry cough, fatigue, joint pain, headache. Sometimes a runny nose and sore throat may appear. In rare cases, children experience diarrhea.

An accurate diagnosis can be made by a doctor, he will also prescribe those remedies that will definitely help to cope with the disease. You don’t have to buy half a pharmacy to find what you need.Stay home anyway, don’t infect other .

#Prevention of coronavirus: basic rules

These rules will help not only with coronavirus, but also any other infection.

– First, wash your hands more often. If you cannot wash your hands with soap and water, use alcohol or disinfectant wipes. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with your hands. The flu virus and coronavirus can spread through contact. Clean and disinfect surfaces using household detergents.

– Second – keep at least a meter away from people with symptoms of colds. Try to avoid crowded places. If you work in an office, ask for a shift in your schedule so you don’t travel during peak hours. Enter the shops when the queues subside.

– Third – protect the respiratory system, first of all, in crowded places. You can sew a reusable gauze mask.

– Fourth – lead a healthy lifestyle, strengthen the immune system. Eat a healthy schedule, including adequate sleep, eating foods rich in protein, vitamins and minerals, and being physically active.