How to distinguish the flu from a cold

Greece is in the heart of winter. Flu and colds are common among young and old at this time. Common symptoms of the disease are cough, body aches, runny nose, chills and sore throat.

But how can you tell if you have the flu or a cold? After all, diseases with similar symptoms are treated differently! Experts answer this question.

To recover from flu and colds, we need some medications (fever reducers), plenty of fluids and rest. Because colds and flu are caused by viruses, antibiotics are not effective.

Flu vs. Colds: What’s the Difference?
The symptoms of a cold and flu may be similar, but they are different infections. Cold usually lasts a shorter period than the flu, with the following symptoms:

• Sometimes slight chills.
• Runny nose or nasal/sinus congestion.
• A sore throat.
• Cough.
• Sneezing.
• Headache.
• Red watery eyes.

Flu, will likely last longer and have more severe symptoms, such as:

• High fever lasting 3-4 days.
• A sore throat.
• Muscle pain (aches throughout the body).
• Physical exhaustion/fatigue (lasts up to 2-3 weeks).
• Cough.
• Strong headache.

What to do if you are sick
Following basic hygiene rules is a fairly effective way to protect yourself and others from the flu or cold.

• Keep your distance from others when you are sick to protect others from getting infected.
• Stay home when you are sick. Avoid going to work, school, and various social events.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Wash your hands often. This significantly reduces the spread of viruses.

Symptom relief
There are some things you can do to relieve symptoms and speed up recovery.
Because colds and flu are caused by viruses, antibiotics are not effective. However, painkillers can be used to relieve symptoms.

• Stay hydrated: When you have a cold, the best thing to do is drink plenty of fluids, water, tea and fruit juices. Fever is one of the most common flu symptoms and can often lead to dehydration and loss of important components of the body’s defenses.
• Eat a healthy diet. When a cold or flu gets worse, it is very important to take care of your diet and physical condition, especially if symptoms continue for several days, even if they are mild.
• Ensure yourself full and healthy sleep.

It is better not to self-medicate and consult a doctor.

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