Five symptoms that distinguish Covid from the winter bug currently circulating
Doctor explains how to prepare for the upcoming flu season
In the past three years not only have the winter months heralded the start of the cold and flu season, but also an uptick in COVID-19 cases.
Colder temperatures coupled with the fact we spend a lot more time indoors, makes us more vulnerable to these types of illnesses at this time of year.
However, with many similarities in symptoms between colds, flu and Covid, it can make it difficult to know exactly what you’re dealing with.
And in recent weeks many people have reported experiencing a particularly nasty cold that comes with debilitating side effects, but have been left baffled as lateral flow tests come back negative.
With this in mind one expert spoke exclusively with Express.co.uk about what to expect from these illnesses.
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GP Doctor Roger Henderson, speaking in partnership with Tixylix children’s cough syrup, explained: “Although many people are talking about a ‘super-cold’ circulating at the moment that is worse than a normal winter cold, there is very little actual evidence this is actually the case.
“It is much more likely that people are catching one of the many viruses that cause colds at this time of year and have either not had a cold for some time – so have forgotten how miserable the symptoms can be – or have an immune system that is still recovering from all the shielding we did during the Covid pandemic and so a cold can feel worse than normal.”
He shared signs of a cold to be aware of.
“Typical symptoms of a cold include a temperature, headache, fatigue, nasal congestion and a cough with most people slowly recovering with simple treatment, staying well hydrated, keeping warm, and resting over seven to 10 days,” Dr Henderson said.
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If you are suffering from Covid as opposed to a cold you could experience five different symptoms, according to Dr Henderson.
These are:
- Diarrhoea
- Vomiting
- Loss of smell
- Loss of taste
- More severe headache.
“Other symptoms to look out for that can help to differentiate Covid from a cold are diarrhoea, vomiting, a loss of smell or taste and a more severe headache,” he said.
The doctor also shared the difference between a cold and flu.
He added: “Unlike a cold, flu symptoms tend to be more severe and develop more quickly, with a much higher temperature, more severe muscle aches and pains and very significant tiredness being usual.”
If you think you have Covid you should take a test. Dr Henderson said: “If someone feels they may have Covid they should test themselves for this as these are very sensitive tests and usually diagnose Covid accurately.”
He shared his tips on how to prevent becoming unwell.
“To help reduce your chances of catching a cold, make sure you are as healthy as you can be by eating a nutritious diet, staying well hydrated, getting sufficient sleep, exercising regularly and avoiding smoking or drinking too much alcohol,” he advised.
“You should also wash your hands regularly using lots of soap and warm water, and if you blow your nose use disposable tissues that you can then safely dispose of.
“If you have children, they could be at greater risk of catching viruses as their immune systems are still developing, and so you should take extra care to ensure that they are doing all of the above.”
If you do become unwell he recommended seeking medical advice if:
- Symptoms suddenly become worse
- Your temperature becomes very high
- You do not get better after three weeks
- If you feel short of breath or develop chest pain
- If you have a weakened immune system or underlying long-term health condition such as diabetes.
He added: “If you are ever concerned about the health of your child, trust your instinct and get them checked over by a doctor.
“If they have a persistent high temperature that isn’t coming down with medication, or if they are struggling with their breathing, don’t delay in seeking help and dial 999.”
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