As we head into the seasons where sniffles and coughs become more common, it can be confusing to know exactly what is making you feel under the weather. Whether it’s seasonal allergies, a common cold, the flu, or COVID-19, many of the symptoms overlap.
This guide is designed to help you spot the differences so you can take the right steps to feel better.
COVID-19 vs. The Common Cold
Both are caused by viruses, but they behave differently. While a cold is usually harmless and clears up in about a week, COVID-19 can sometimes lead to more serious health issues.
- Speed of Symptoms:
- Colds usually appear quickly (1–3 days after being exposed).
- COVID-19 symptoms can take longer to show up, anywhere from 2 to 14 days.
- Key Differences:
- Fever & Headache: Common with COVID-19, but very rare with a cold.
- Tiredness: COVID-19 often leaves you feeling very drained; a cold usually doesn’t.
- Loss of Taste/Smell: This is a classic early sign of COVID-19 that you won’t experience with a simple cold.
COVID-19 vs. Seasonal Allergies
The biggest difference here is that allergies are not a virus. They are your body’s reaction to things like pollen or dust.
- The “Itch” Factor: If your eyes, nose, or ears are itchy, it is likely allergies. COVID-19 does not typically cause itchiness.
- Fever: Allergies never cause a fever. If you have a temperature, it is likely an infection like the flu or COVID-19.
- Duration: Allergies can last for many weeks as long as the pollen is in the air, whereas a virus usually runs its course in a week or two.
COVID-19 vs. The Flu
These two are the hardest to tell apart because they share almost all the same symptoms, including fever, cough, and body aches.
- Testing is Key: Because they are so similar, doctors often use a test to confirm which one you have. You can even have both at the same time!
- Nausea: While common in children with the flu, nausea or diarrhea in adults is more frequently associated with COVID-19.
- Shortness of Breath: This is more common with COVID-19 and can be a sign that you need to seek medical attention.
Quick Symptom Reference Table
|
Symptom |
COVID-19 |
Common Cold |
Flu |
Allergies |
|
Fever |
Sometimes |
Rarely |
Usually |
Never |
|
Headache |
Usually |
Rarely |
Usually |
Rarely |
|
Muscle Aches |
Sometimes |
Never |
Usually |
Never |
|
Tiredness |
Usually |
Never |
Usually |
Sometimes |
|
Itchy Eyes/Nose |
Sometimes |
Never |
Never |
Usually |
|
Loss of Taste |
Sometimes |
Never |
Rarely |
Sometimes |
What Should You Do If You Feel Sick?
- Rest and Hydrate:
For mild cases of any of these, staying home and drinking plenty of fluids is the best first step. - Manage Pain:
Over-the-counter medicines like Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Advil (ibuprofen) can help with fevers and aches. - Check Your Meds:
If you have allergies, antihistamines or nasal sprays can provide relief. Note that antibiotics do not work on viruses like COVID-19 or the flu. - Consult Your Doctor:
If you are having trouble breathing or your symptoms are getting worse, call your healthcare provider. They can provide antiviral treatments that help your body fight the virus more effectively.
by Debbie Crause, CSA
We hope this information is helpful to you in the important work you do as a family caregiver.
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The post How to tell the difference between Common Cold, Flu or Covid-19 appeared first on Family Caregivers Online.
