What is the difference between the common cold and the flu?

Feb 13, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Ren Yi

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, "flu" refers to influenza. The differences between the common cold and influenza include different pathogens, varying levels of prevalence, different symptoms, distinct treatment approaches, and differing complications and health risks. Maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet, engaging in appropriate exercise, following a regular作息 (作息 should be translated as "routine" or "schedule"), and keeping a positive mood in daily life can help enhance the body's resistance to diseases and reduce the occurrence of illnesses.

Generally speaking, "flu" refers to influenza. There are several differences between the common cold and influenza, including differences in pathogens, prevalence, symptoms, treatment approaches, as well as complications and severity. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Different pathogens

The common cold can be caused by various viruses, such as rhinovirus, coronavirus, and parainfluenza virus. Sometimes it may also be caused by bacterial infections. Influenza is caused by the influenza virus, mainly types A and B, with type A being the most common.

2. Different levels of prevalence

The common cold can occur throughout the year, especially during seasonal transitions and in winter and spring. It is usually sporadic and does not lead to widespread epidemics. Influenza is highly contagious and can rapidly spread among large populations within a short period, commonly occurring in winter and spring.

3. Different symptoms

The common cold has a relatively sudden onset. Early symptoms include a dry, itchy throat, nasal congestion, and runny nose. The nasal discharge starts as clear fluid and may be accompanied by a sore throat, but generally does not involve fever. Influenza has an incubation period of usually 1 to 3 days and an abrupt onset, often starting with fever that can reach as high as 39°C to 40°C, accompanied by chills and general discomfort.

4. Different treatment approaches

Treatment for the common cold is mainly symptomatic, such as using antipyretic analgesics and cough suppressants, and it usually resolves quickly. Influenza treatment typically follows medical advice and may involve medications such as oseltamivir phosphate capsules, baloxavir marboxil tablets, or Pudilan anti-inflammatory capsules, with management for fever reduction, pain relief, and cough suppression tailored to the patient's condition.

5. Different complications and severity

The common cold generally does not cause complications, although occasionally it may lead to sinusitis, lower respiratory tract infections, or asthma attacks, and it poses minimal risk. Influenza typically has a recovery period of 4 to 7 days, but coughing may persist for several weeks. A small number of patients may develop severe complications from influenza, such as pneumonia or myocarditis.

In daily life, maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet, engaging in moderate exercise, keeping a regular sleep schedule, and maintaining a positive mood can help enhance the body's resistance to illness and reduce the occurrence of diseases.

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Does Lianhua Qingwen treat allergic asthma?

The core effects of Lianhua Qingwen are clearing away epidemic toxins, detoxification, promoting lung function, and relieving heat. It is primarily used to treat influenza due to heat-toxin attacking the lungs, and is not intended for the treatment of allergic asthma. Allergic asthma results from an abnormal immune response to allergens and requires targeted anti-inflammatory and anti-allergy treatments. Patients with allergic asthma should seek timely evaluation and standardized treatment at a respiratory medicine department.

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Can I eat Russula mushroom and lean pork soup for a cough caused by a cold?

In general, it is acceptable to consume red mushroom and lean pork soup when experiencing a cold or cough, as long as it is consumed in moderation. Extra attention should be paid to daily care during a cold with coughing. Ensure adequate rest and avoid fatigue so the body has sufficient energy to recover. Drink plenty of warm water to keep the respiratory tract moist and reduce coughing caused by irritation. Maintain a light diet and avoid spicy or greasy foods.

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Is amoxicillin effective for the common cold?

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Can Ganmao Qingre Granules be taken together with Zhongsheng Pills?

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