How to differentiate between the common cold and influenza

Flu refers to influenza. To distinguish between influenza and the common cold, one can focus on aspects such as the type of pathogen, incubation period, symptom presentation, epidemic season, medication use, and so on. If in doubt, it is recommended to seek medical advice in advance. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Types of pathogens

The common cold is caused by various viruses, including parainfluenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus, etc. Influenza is mainly caused by the influenza virus, including types A, B, and C influenza viruses.

2. Incubation period

The incubation period for the common cold is generally 1 to 3 days. The incubation period for influenza is relatively shorter, usually several hours to 2 days.

3. Symptom presentation

The common cold primarily presents with upper respiratory tract symptoms, such as nasal congestion, runny nose, cough, sore throat, etc., and symptoms are generally mild. Influenza presents with more severe systemic symptoms, such as high fever, headache, muscle pain, sore throat, redness of the conjunctiva, etc. Influenza can also lead to severe complications such as pneumonia, myocarditis, meningitis, and so on.

4. Epidemic season

The common cold can occur at any time of the year. Influenza usually has a seasonal pattern, commonly seen in spring and winter, and is more prevalent among infants, the elderly, and individuals living in group settings.

5. Medication use

For treatment of the common cold, medications such as paracetamol tablets, suhuang zhi ke capsules, and fengre ganmao granules can be used under a doctor's guidance. Influenza is primarily treated with antiviral drugs, such as oseltamivir phosphate capsules, baloxavir marboxil tablets, antiviral oral liquid, etc.

In daily life, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, improving dietary habits, engaging in appropriate physical exercise, enhancing physical fitness, and reducing the risk of illness are recommended.