A cold is usually mild and caused by rhinoviruses, with symptoms like a runny nose, sore throat, and mild cough. The flu, caused by influenza viruses, has more severe symptoms such as high fever, chills, body aches, and fatigue.
Respiratory illnesses can worsen conditions like asthma, COPD, and interstitial lung disease, potentially leading to severe complications like pneumonia.
Get a flu vaccine, practice good hygiene (handwashing, avoiding face-touching), and strengthen your immune system with a healthy diet, hydration, sleep, and exercise.
No, the flu vaccine only protects against influenza, not the common cold. However, it reduces your risk of severe respiratory illness caused by the flu.
Rest, stay hydrated, and use over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms. Seek medical advice if symptoms worsen or you have trouble breathing.
Contact a doctor if you experience persistent fever, difficulty breathing, worsening symptoms, or signs of complications like pneumonia.
Use a humidifier, take medications like acetaminophen for fever, and drink warm fluids to ease symptoms. Rest is also crucial for recovery.
Have a proactive care plan, monitor symptoms closely, and contact your pulmonologist if your regular medications are not effective or if symptoms worsen.
Stay home when sick, wear masks if symptomatic, and follow vaccination recommendations to protect vulnerable populations.
Preventing illness reduces the risk of complications, healthcare costs, and the burden on your immune system, ensuring overall better respiratory health.
