Signs and Symptoms of the Common Cold
Amidst the sniffles, scratchy throat, and overall feeling of blah, it’s pretty clear that you might have caught yourself a pesky common cold. The common cold typically starts off with a scratchy or sore throat, making you want to reach for that hot cup of tea or a comforting lozenge. As the cold progresses, you might notice that you’re suddenly sneezing more than usual, thanks to the irritation in your nasal passages.
Feeling a bit under the weather, both physically and mentally, is another telltale sign of the common cold. You might find yourself feeling more tired and sluggish than usual, struggling to find the energy to get through your day. And if that weren’t enough, the congestion and runny nose team up to make breathing feel like a chore.
How the Common Cold Spreads
The common cold is a highly contagious respiratory illness that spreads easily from person to person. The primary mode of transmission is through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can land on surfaces or be inhaled by individuals nearby, leading to the spread of the virus.
Another common way the cold virus spreads is through touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching the face, particularly the eyes, nose, or mouth. This is why frequent handwashing and avoiding touching the face with unwashed hands are key in preventing the spread of the common cold. Additionally, close contact with an infected person, such as hugging or shaking hands, can also contribute to the transmission of the virus.
Preventative Measures to Avoid Getting Sick
Washing your hands frequently is one of the best ways to prevent catching a cold. Make sure to scrub them for at least 20 seconds with soap and warm water, especially after being in public places or around sick individuals. Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth, as germs can enter your body through these contact points.
Staying hydrated and eating a balanced diet can also help boost your immune system and ward off illnesses like the common cold. Drinking plenty of water helps flush out toxins from your body, while eating fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins and minerals can provide your immune system with the support it needs to fight off infections. So, remember to drink water throughout the day and incorporate a variety of colorful foods into your meals to stay healthy and cold-free.
Difference Between a Cold and the Flu
A cold and the flu might seem similar at first glance, but there are key differences that can help you distinguish between the two. One major distinction is the onset of symptoms – a cold typically starts gradually, whereas the flu comes on suddenly and more severely. So, if you wake up feeling fine and then gradually start to develop sniffles and a sore throat, it’s likely just a cold.
Another way to differentiate between a cold and the flu is by the intensity of symptoms. With a cold, you might experience mild fatigue and a low-grade fever, whereas the flu often brings about more severe symptoms like high fever, body aches, and extreme fatigue that can leave you bedridden. So, if you’re stuck in bed with a high fever and body aches that feel like you’ve been hit by a truck, chances are it’s the flu and not just a pesky cold.