Clearing Up Confusion Over Colds, Flu and Bacterial Infections
By: Gillian May
Tags: Wellness, Education, Learning, Life Lessons, Health

Colds and flu have plagued us for as long as we can remember.

The rise in more dangerous strains has made all of us more paranoid about getting sick.

We search the internet, go to our doctors, read up on the latest cures and remedies, but we still don’t have a firm grip on some basic education around colds and flu.

Mainly, we don’t understand what separates a cold from the flu, and we still don’t understand the difference between a bacterial and viral infection.

Many people run to the doctor hoping to get antibiotics for a viral infection, and they don’t need them. Also, people are confused about whether to be tested and treated for the flu.

Lastly, many people are still not sure about how to properly treat colds and flu at home or when they should consult a doctor.

Authors Own Creation for Ask a Nurse

In this “Ask a Nurse” article, I hope to provide some easy to follow tips and education about colds and flu and how to look after yourself and your family.

I’ll use some common questions people have as a way to guide the discussion.

What is the difference between a cold and the flu?

Colds and flu are both caused by viruses, but the strain of virus may be different. Most people have heard about the influenza virus, which causes the “flu,” but many people get similar symptoms from virus strains that are not the same as influenza.

Here are some common symptoms for both colds and flu:

- Runny nose

- Cough

- Congestion

- Fever with chills

- Muscle aches and pains

- Decreased appetite

- Headache

The main difference between a cold and the flu is that the fever is often higher and lasts longer for the flu. Also, symptoms such as headache and muscle pain are often much worse for the flu.

In general, cold viruses are less severe than influenza, but it depends on the person and their health history. A person with a healthy immune system and no other health conditions may only have mild symptoms from a cold.

However, someone with a compromised immune system due to cancer, autoimmune issues, or certain medications may have worse symptoms. Also, heavy smokers and people with asthma, reactive airways, and chronic lung conditions can have severe symptoms from a cold.

Image by skeeze from Pixabay

How do I know if it’s a bacterial or viral infection?

Colds and flu are caused only by viruses. The strains and names are different, but the behavior and trajectory are quite similar.

Let’s repeat that: Colds and flu are ONLY caused by viruses.

The thing that gets confusing is when a viral infection creates circumstances where bacteria can grow. This is called a secondary bacterial infection. The reason people get paranoid, and rightfully so, (especially with children and older people) is because a secondary bacterial infection can be severe.

Let me explain how this works. The main symptoms of a virus are congestion, cough, and runny nose. This happens because the virus causes inflammation of the whole respiratory system.

Sometimes the inflammation stays in the nasal area, and sometimes it travels down into the lungs. Either way, the inflammation causes swelling, mucus, and liquid production.

Within this swollen and mucus-filled area lies a high potential for bacteria to multiply and have a party. This is particularly dangerous for people with immune system issues.

Sometimes even healthy people can get a secondary infection if they are really run-down or the congestion is so severe that there’s no air-flow. Some bacteria love places with limited air flow and lots of mucus to live in.