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Is It a Cold, Allergies, the Flu, or COVID?

December 9, 2024 Pegalis Law Group

‘Tis the season for sniffles, sneezes, coughs, body aches, and more. How do you know if you’re suffering from a cold, allergies, the flu, or COVID? Each of these illnesses shares overlapping symptoms, making it tricky to identify the cause of your misery. However, knowing the difference allows you to take appropriate action. Pegalis Law Group, LLC examines these common conditions’ symptoms, causes, and treatments to help you figure out what might be ailing you or a loved one this time of year.

What Causes the Common Cold & Other Illnesses?

The common cold is a viral infection affecting your nose and throat, primarily caused by rhinoviruses. Allergies occur when your immune system overreacts to a foreign substance, such as pollen, pet dander, or dust mites. Allergies can be seasonal, such as spring hay fever, or year-round. While they aren’t contagious, allergies can mimic cold symptoms. The flu, or influenza, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. The flu can lead to mild to severe illness and, at times, hospitalization or even death. COVID-19, caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, has had a global impact since 2020. COVID-19 also shares symptoms with the cold and flu, making diagnosis challenging without testing.

How Do Cold or Flu Symptoms Differ From COVID-19?

Determining if you have a cold, allergies, the flu, or COVID-19 can be difficult because of shared symptoms. However, there are some differences that can help you identify what’s going on:

  • Common Cold – Cold symptoms typically include a runny or stuffy nose, cough, congestion, sore throat, slight body aches, and sneezing. The symptoms often come on gradually and can last a few days to a week. Unlike the flu and COVID-19, colds rarely cause high fever or severe fatigue.
  • The Flu – Unlike a cold, the flu usually comes on suddenly. Typical flu symptoms include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, and fatigue. Some people, especially children, may also experience vomiting and diarrhea. The flu is more intense than a cold and can lead to serious complications.
  • Allergies – Common allergy symptoms include sneezing, itching, runny or stuffy nose, and watery eyes. Unlike colds, allergies don’t usually cause body aches or fever. In some cases, allergies may cause itchy skin or hives, which are red, raised skin welts. More severe reactions might include difficulty breathing or wheezing, indicating a potential asthma-related response.
  • COVID-19 – Key COVID-19 symptoms include fever, dry cough, fatigue, and difficulty breathing. Some people may also experience loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion, body aches, and gastrointestinal symptoms, such as diarrhea. The severity of COVID-19 symptoms can vary widely. Seek urgent medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, confusion, or bluish lips or face.

If you’re uncertain about your symptoms, consult your doctor. Testing can help confirm a diagnosis, especially for COVID-19 and influenza. If your symptoms are severe or don’t improve with home treatment, seek medical care. Follow public health guidelines for testing and isolation if you suspect COVID-19 (even mild symptoms) to help prevent further spread and complications.

Treatments for Colds, Flus, Allergies, & COVID-19

Treatment for the common cold focuses on relieving symptoms through over-the-counter medications like antihistamines and decongestants. Keeping hydrated, getting plenty of rest, and sipping warm fluids like soup or tea can also provide much-needed comfort. Managing allergies typically involves avoiding known allergens and using antihistamines to relieve symptoms. While nasal sprays and decongestants can be effective, allergy shots may be recommended for long-term relief.

Flu treatment may involve antiviral drugs, which can lessen symptoms and shorten the illness if taken early. Rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications for aches and fever can also help manage flu symptoms. COVID-19 treatment depends on the illness severity. Mild cases may require rest, fluids, and pain relievers, while severe cases might need hospitalization and oxygen therapy.

How Can You Avoid Getting Sick During Cold & Flu Season?

Preventing colds, allergies, the flu, and COVID-19 requires strategies to reduce exposure to pathogens and allergens. While not all illnesses can be entirely prevented, you can take steps to lower your risk:

  • Frequent handwashing and avoiding close contact with sick individuals helps prevent the spread of viruses.
  • Supporting your immune system can help prevent illness and improve your overall health. A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables provides essential vitamins and minerals. Regular exercise, sleep, and stress relief can boost your immune system. Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol use further supports your immune health, reducing the risk of respiratory infections.
  • Flu and COVID-19 vaccinations can reduce the risk of severe illness. Annual flu shots can protect against the most common strains and are recommended for everyone, especially older adults and those with chronic conditions. COVID-19 vaccines have been shown to reduce the illness’ severity and the risk of hospitalization.
  • Reducing your exposure to known allergens and using air purifiers can make a huge difference to those with allergies. Wearing masks can also help filter out pollen and other allergens, especially during peak allergy seasons.

Follow Us to Receive Additional Health-Related Insights Distinguishing between a cold, allergies, the flu, and COVID-19 can be challenging, but understanding their unique characteristics can guide your next steps. By staying informed and proactive, you can manage your symptoms effectively and reduce the risk of spreading illness to others. As a New York-based personal injury and medical malpractice law firm with 50+ years of experience, Pegalis Law Group, LLC is devoted to creating proactive patients. Please visit our website and follow us on YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn for additional insights to be proactive about your family’s health this year.