How to Tell if you have a Cold, Bronchitis or Flu
With all the germs and bacteria out there, it is easy to become infected and develop symptoms that can leave us feeling miserable for days. The hard part is determining what type of virus or infection you have. Most of us misdiagnose our conditions and claim we have something we do not. Many illnesses have overlapping symptoms, which makes it hard to pinpoint what type of virus we have caught.
Instructions
-
-
1
The common cold presents itself as a runny nose with clear mucus, sore throat, cough and a low-grade or no fever. You are still able to move about, function and remain active. Children suffering from a cold are usually able to continue playing and going about their everyday routines. The common cold is typically harmless and generally lasts three to five days. There is no cure for the common cold, but over-the-counter cold medicine can help relieve some of the symptoms.
-
2
Influenza, otherwise known as the flu, is accompanied by a headache, high fever, vomiting, body aches and coughing, with normal breathing. The flu leaves you feeling worse than the common cold, but it does not affect your overall breathing. The flu is typically treated with bed rest and fluids to keep yourself from becoming dehydrated. The flu is generally harmless in healthy patients but can be fatal if you have a weakened immune system or chronic illness. Getting an annual flu shot can lower your risk of catching the influenza virus.
-
-
3
Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which are the main air passages, to your lungs. The inflammation causes a cough, shortness of breath and chest tightness. You will often cough up a yellow or greenish mucus, and you will have a lingering dry cough. Bronchitis is usually treated with antibiotics prescribed by your doctor and over-the-counter cough suppressants.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Consult your physician if you experience trouble breathing.
