Cold and Flu Season: What You Need to Know

It’s that time of year, where it seems impossible to go out without passing someone with a spluttering cough or sneeze. We speak to Dr Parvin Farkhani, Private GP at BMI The Ridgeway Hospital, to learn more about the differences between cold and flu, plus what you can do to protect yourself.

What causes the cold and flu?

Common cold and flu are both respiratory infections caused by viruses. Flu can be caused by specific viruses called influenza virus type A and B, however, common cold can be caused by many different types of viruses. Whilst the common cold can happen at any time of year, the flu is more common between October to March.

How does it spread?

You can catch the flu in the same way as you would with the common cold which is by contacting the droplets spread by the infected person. This could be from sneezing, coughing or physical contact with a person e.g. shaking hands. Alternatively, surfaces contaminated by the saliva can also spread the infection. However the infection is spread, the route of entry is always the same, via the mouth, nose or eyes.

What are common symptoms of the common cold?

The common cold mainly affects the nose, throat, larynx and sinuses. It lasts for a few days, and usually no longer than a week. The most common symptoms are nasal congestion, runny nose, dry throat and congested sinuses. Fever onset is rare and would usually be mild. Ultimately, the common cold does not cause any serious complications and the majority of patients carry on with their daily activities despite the infection.

And what are the symptoms of the flu?

With flu, the symptoms are a lot more severe – and the onset rapid. You will normally feel so exhausted that it prevents you from continuing with daily activities. A persistent fever above 38C and severe body aches are common, with the possibility of a sore throat, cough, headaches, shivering, and diarrhoea or vomiting. Most symptoms of the flu improve within three to seven days, but it is not uncommon for tiredness to continue for over a week.

Is flu really more dangerous than a cold?

Seasonal flu can be associated with complications, such as pneumonia which is sometimes life threatening. Other complications may include sinusitis, bronchitis and an ear infection. If you experience a wet cough combined with a persistent fever and breathing problems you should seek medical advice immediately. If you initially see an improvement, but then start to deteriorate again, you should also seek advice as this can be a sign of complications or a superadded bacterial infection.

Is there a way to treat these infections?

Prevention is key. The flu vaccine is the best defence, but practising good hygiene, washing hands frequently and avoiding contact with infected individuals all play their part too.

If you are infected, remember that neither condition requires antibiotics, and these are only ever indicated if you develop complications of the flu. While your doctor may issue a prescription for an antiviral flu medication, over-the-counter medications will often ease symptoms, such as decongestants for the nose and painkillers for aches, pains and fever. It is important to drink plenty of fluids, rest until your body fights the infection off, and to stay away from other people to avoid the risk of passing the virus to others.

If you’re concerned about your health but finding it difficult to see a GP, BMI The Ridgeway Hospital offers rapid access to private GP appointments. To find out more call 0800 096 2694.