Differences Between A Cold And The Flu?

What do you have cold or flu?

The common cold and the flu are very similar at first sight. But They are both respiratory illnesses and can cause similar symptoms. However, the different viruses cause these two different conditions, and your symptoms will gradually help you to understand the difference between both respiratory problems. The main difference between a cold and the flu is that the flu has more severe symptoms and complications comparatively.

What are the Causes ?

Different viruses are responsible for common cold including rhinoviruses and some coronaviruses (But not the COVID-19), can cause the common cold.

For the flu different type of Influenza viruses are responsible, three main types affecting humans: influenza A, B, and C. The most common types during flu season are type A and type B.

What are the symptoms ?

To determine whether your symptoms are from a cold or from the flu, you should see your doctor. Your doctor will help you to find out that you have flu or common cold through various lab test.Cold and the flu have a few common symptoms,

• A runny nose
• Sneezing
• Body aches
• General fatigue

If you are diagnosed with a cold, you can treat your symptoms yourself until the virus has gone through homeremedies or you can take over-the-counter (OTC) cold medications and focus on staying hydrated, and getting plenty of rest in your whole day.

How To Treat Cold And Flu?

Many doctors prescribe but reality is that Antibiotics do not work against either common cold or the flu. Most people who have a cold or the flu get recovered within few weeks without any medical treatment. During this time, they can relieve their symptoms taking the advantage home remedies and OTC medications.

1. Over-The-Counter (OTC) Medicines

The most common OTC medicines used for colds may be included decongestants, antihistamines, and analgesics, These OTC drugs can help to relieve uncomfortable symptoms, including pain, body aches, and fever and feel more comfortable while they recover.

2. Home Remedies

The Indian traditional home remedies definitely work wonders for common cold and flu. Here are few traditional home remedies for cold and flu that will help you:

1. Kadha : Kadha is a mixture of herbs and some spices that include cinnamon, cloves, black pepper, ghee, ginger, tulsi and garlic.
2. Turmeric milk : We know turmeric has a power of anti-inflammatory agent and anti-bacterial properties. Turmeric boiled milk with ghee helps relieve cold and flu symptoms.
3. ​Ginger and Tulsi tea : Ginger tea is very easy to make and is considered as s good appetizer that helps to relieve cold and cough. Tulsi has different medicinal properties. It helps boost your immunity and reduces stress level and helps to balance our blood sugar level specially beneficial for diabetic patients.