Throat Care

The common cold and the flu are two of the most common illnesses that affect people of all ages, sharing many overlapping symptoms. However, understanding the differences between them can be crucial for effective care and recovery.

The common cold is caused by a wide range of viruses. Once infected, there is no direct treatment for the viral infection itself — only symptom relief. Over time, people often build immunity to certain strains, which explains why colds are more frequent among younger individuals. Typical symptoms include a mild fever (around 100°F), sinus congestion, and a sore throat. While usually not serious, colds can be more severe for those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms can be managed with decongestants to relieve nasal blockage and antipyretics to reduce fever.

The flu (influenza) is caused by the influenza virus and tends to be more severe than the common cold. The seriousness of a flu infection depends on the strain of the virus. Although both cold and flu share similar symptoms, the flu often brings higher fevers (up to 104°F), more intense congestion, fatigue, and body aches. Because of these differences, it’s important to identify which illness one has to ensure proper care and recovery.