Preventing viral illnesses, such as the flu, is a top priority during the cold season. As COVID-19 continues to spread, many people with certain symptoms might wonder whether they have the common cold or COVID-19. These two conditions have several similarities. Furthermore, both can manifest differently, with milder or stronger symptoms. 

 

If you suspect that you have COVID-19 symptoms, you need to ask your doctor about COVID-19 testing services. That said, the common cold, COVID-19, the flu, and seasonal allergies can cause several similar symptoms.

 

Therefore, you need to understand the differences in signs and symptoms that these illnesses cause. You also need to understand how these illnesses spread, as well as how to prevent and treat them.

 

COVID-19

Also known as coronavirus, this is a highly contagious respiratory condition caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It usually spreads between individuals in close contact with each other. This means being within six feet of an infected person. 

 

Coronavirus spreads through respiratory droplets released when an infected person talks, sneezes, coughs, or even breathes. The virus spreads when these droplets land in the nose or mouth of someone nearby. You can also contract the virus when you inhale the droplets or touch an object or surface with the virus on it and then touch your nose, mouth, or eyes. 

 

Symptoms of COVID-19

Coronavirus can cause a wide range of symptoms, which can range from mild to severe. These symptoms usually appear between two days and two weeks after exposure. Some of the most common symptoms of COVID-19 include:

 

• Persistent coughs
   

• Fatigue
   

• Chills and fever
   

• Difficulty breathing
   

• Headaches
   

• Body and muscle aches
   

• Diarrhea
   

• Sore throat
   

• Nausea
   

• Congestion
  
   

This list of symptoms does not include all possible coronavirus symptoms. The CDC is still updating the list as more information and COVID-19 variants emerge. According to medical professionals, older individuals and those with underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, lung disease, or heart problems, seem to have a higher likelihood of developing more severe complications. As the statistics show, these complications can lead to death. 

 

Winter Cold

Winter cold can make anyone feel miserable. But compared to COVID-19, the symptoms of winter cold are relatively mild. Usually, this viral nose and throat infection is harmless. However, it might not feel that way to you. If you are a healthy individual, you can expect to have two or even three colds every year. Kids tend to have more frequent colds than adults. 

 

Symptoms of a Winter Cold

Symptoms of this viral infection usually appear one to three days after exposure to the virus. They can vary from person to person. However, the most common symptoms include:

 

• Sneezing
   

• Stuffy or runny nose
   

• Congestion
   

• Cough
   

• Sore throat
   

• Low-grade fever
   

• Mild headache
   

• Mild body aches
   

• Generally feeling unwell
  
   

That said, in certain circumstances, winter cold can be deadly since built-up immunity tends to wane. So if your symptoms persist, you need to consult your doctor. 

 

Difference Between a Winter Cold and COVID-19

Viruses cause both conditions. They can spread in similar ways and even cause several similar symptoms. However, you need to understand that the viruses that cause them are different. Hence, you need to consult a doctor as soon as possible when in doubt.


 

To learn more about differentiating winter cold and COVID-19, contact Advanced Pediatrics PC at our office in Elmhurst or Jackson Heights, New York. You can call (718) 271-2600 today to schedule an appointment.