Common Cold Preparations and Influenza Therapy

High fever most common symptom

Common Cold Preparations and Influenza Therapy

Definitely no living or once lived human being has not got common cold or Influenza even once in his life time. But what’s the difference between the two clinical cases?

There are huge differences between them which can be summarized in the coming points:-

First the nature of infection, we know that both are direct results of infection but in case of the common cold that infection is bacterial mostly (gram + bacteria like Streptococci and Staphylococci), two types of bacteria which are responsible for approximately 99.9% of all common cold and sore throat cases allover the world, but in case of Influenza the nature of infection is viral which mainly by Influenza virus and its different serotypes.

So what a bout the symptoms of each?

In case of common cold, manifestations include hyperthermia (fever), headache, generalized weakness, congestion, pain especially in tonsils, nasal sinuses and pharyngeal plate and the nasal-pharyngeal septum.

In case of Influenza manifestations include, runny nose, headache, fever, cough, generalized weakness and pain.

Haw to differentiate?

The two cases can be differentiated by experience and timing of the infection (Influenza only occurs in certain seasons) and diagnosis confirmed by lab investigation of throat or nasal swaps. Case also can be confirmed by sputum culture and result obtained in 48 hours.

What are the major differences in the type of treatment and types of medications?

In case of common cold beside the symptomatic treatment (analgesics, antipyretics and antihistaminic) one should use anti-biotic to kill bacteria which is the main source of infection mostly (Ampicillins used).

But in case of Influenza no anti-biotic used because the main source of infection is viral so only (symptomatic treatment plus vitamin C which play a good role in the treatment of Influenza).

Finally haw can any one protect himself against both?

First you have to consider eating a lot of vegetables and fruits, keep you immune system in a good state, avoid extreme weather conditions (extreme cold mainly), you could gain immunity by be vaccinated against Influenza which could be done every six months.