How To Distinguish Between the Common Cold, Flu and RSV

The common cold, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are among the most common respiratory illnesses in the United States, particularly during the cold weather season. Because they share similar symptoms and transmission methods, it can be difficult to determine which of the three illnesses is the root cause of your symptoms. Read on to learn about their similarities and differences so you know when to seek immediate medical care.

What Do These Illnesses Have in Common?

While the common cold, flu and RSV are caused by different viruses, they share several traits.

1. Transmission: All three are spread through respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing or close contact. Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your face can also lead to infection.
2. Seasonal patterns: These illnesses peak in the colder months, as people spend more time indoors, increasing close contact and the spread of germs.
3. Symptoms: The common cold, flu and RSV share several common symptoms, including:
   – Runny or stuffy nose
   – Cough
   – Sore throat
   – Fatigue
   – Fever (more commonly seen in patients with the flu or RSV than in those with a common cold)
   If you’re experiencing these symptoms, visit Midwest Express Clinic, open daily with over 50 convenient locations and more than 65 medical services to help you feel better fast.
4. Prevention: Good hygiene practices like frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals and cleaning commonly used surfaces help reduce the risk of RSV, influenza and the common cold. Although flu and RSV vaccines are available nationwide, there is currently not a vaccine for the common cold.

What Makes These Illnesses Different From One Another?

1. Causes: The common cold is caused by various types of viruses, with rhinovirus being the most prominent cause of the illness. Influenza stems from an infection from various influenza A and B virus strains. RSV is caused by — you guessed it — respiratory syncytial virus.
2. Severity: The common cold typically produces mild symptoms that last no longer than a week. The odds of developing further complications from a cold are practically nonexistent. With the flu, it is common for patients to experience abrupt onset of symptoms like fever, fatigue and body aches occurring within as little as 24 to 48 hours. Complications like pneumonia can occur in patients with the flu, especially in vulnerable populations. RSV infections are usually mild in healthy adults. However, RSV can cause serious complications like bronchiolitis or pneumonia in infants, older adults and patients with weakened immune systems.
3. Key symptoms: The common cold results in predominantly nasal symptoms like a runny nose and sneezing. The flu presents with more significant symptoms such as high fever, body aches, chills and persistent fatigue. In cases of RSV, patients typically start out experiencing cold-like symptoms before progressing to wheezing and difficulty breathing. In more severe cases of RSV, patients can experience decreased appetite.
4. Treatment options: When battling the common cold, the most effective methods of treatment include bed rest, drinking plenty of fluids and taking OTC cold medications to relieve symptoms. The flu, on the other hand, can be treated with antiviral medications like oseltamivir. These medications specifically target the influenza virus and can drastically speed up recovery and reduce symptoms if taken within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms.
   If you’re uncertain about the best treatment, visit our convenient urgent care clinics across Northwest Indiana and Chicagoland for the care and support you need to feel your best.
5. Risk groups: The common cold affects patients of all ages but is usually benign. With the flu, there are significantly higher risks for complications in older adults, young children, pregnant women and patients with chronic conditions. RSV can be particularly dangerous for infants under 1 year and older adults with chronic heart or lung conditions.

When To Seek Medical Care?

While most cases of cold, flu and RSV resolve on their own, there are several severe symptoms that warrant immediate medical attention including:

• Difficulty breathing or wheezing
• Persistent high fever
• Chest pain or severe fatigue
• Dehydration (e.g., reduced urination, dry mouth)
• Worsening symptoms after initial improvement

Navigate Cold, Flu and RSV This Winter with The Help Of Midwest Express Clinic

Understanding the key differences between the common cold, influenza, and RSV is essential for taking the right steps to protect your health and prevent complications. By maintaining good hygiene and staying current with flu and RSV vaccines, you can help ensure a healthy and joyful holiday season for your family.

If you or a loved one are experiencing flu or RSV symptoms, don’t wait—visit Midwest Express Clinic today. Our experienced urgent care providers are ready to offer a thorough diagnosis and personalized treatment plan to get you back on track. Find a location near you at midwestexpressclinic.com/locations.