Covid-19 vs Common Cold: Understanding the Differences and Identifying the Symptoms
When Facing Uncertainty: Covid-19 or Common Cold Symptoms? This Article Provides Testing Guidelines
The divergence of symptoms between a common cold and Covid-19 can sometimes be fickle, but there are subtle differences to spot. Here's a breakdown to help you navigate through the distinctions:
symptom dashboard
The tricky overlap of symptoms often leaves people questioning if they've caught a cold or Covid-19. However, knowing the key differences can provide some insight:
- Fever: More predominant in Covid-19 as compared to a cold, although a fever can manifest in both[1][3].
- Loss of Taste/Smell: Frequently occurs in Covid-19, less common in colds[1][4].
- Fatigue: Tends to be more pronounced in Covid-19[4].
- Body Aches: Common in Covid-19, less so in colds[3][4].
- Gastrointestinal Issues: More likely in Covid-19[4].
- Sneezing and Runny Nose: Found in both, but more often associated with additional severe symptoms in Covid-19[1][4].
When to Take the Plunge and Get Tested
Given the seriousness of Covid-19 and the emergence of highly transmissible variants, testing is vital for a definitive diagnosis - especially if symptoms are severe or worsening. Consider getting tested if:
- Symptoms Persist or Worsen: If your symptoms aren't improving or are growing more intense[1].
- High Fever: If you have a fever that refuses to subside[1].
- Recent Exposure: If you've been near someone diagnosed with Covid-19[1].
- Difficulty Breathing or Chest Pain: If you begin struggling to breathe or feel chest pain[1].
Keep in mind that the base of this advice is generic and does not replace a professional medical opinion. Consult a specialist or your doctor for further guidance. Good luck, and stay safe in these trying times!
[1] A CDC report on symptoms and testing.[2] An analysis of Covid-19 symptoms by Johns Hopkins Medicine.[3] A comprehensive guide to cold and flu symptoms from Mayo Clinic.[4] Experts from the University of Cambridge discuss the differences between Covid-19 and common cold symptoms.
- In fitness-and-exercise routines, mental-health is equally important as physical health, as both respiratory-conditions and medical-conditions can impact an individual's overall health-and-wellness.
- As essential workers push through to provide medical care, they may encounter patients with a range of conditions, including respiratory-conditions like Covid-19, and other medical-conditions, thus science plays a crucial role in understanding their treatment and healing.
- To maintain a balanced health-and-wellness, one should focus on both mental-health and physical fitness, ensuring that known differences between respiratory-conditions such as the common cold and Covid-19 are adequately addressed through proper knowledge, exercise, and seeking medical-help when necessary.
