What is a cold (flu syndrome)?
Cough (croup syndrome) is an illness in which a sudden inflammation occurs in the upper respiratory tract from the nose to the throat. The inflammation may also spread to the bronchi and lungs.
About 90% of cases are attributed to the virus, and the most common causes are the rhinovirus, coronavirus, RSV, parainfluenza virus, adenovirus, and others. The remaining 10% are caused by bacteria, pneumococcal mycoplasma, and pneumococcal clostridium bacteria. It is transmitted through sneezing and coughing droplets (contact infection), and by contaminated hands or objects (contact infection).
The main symptoms are pain in the throat, runny nose, stuffiness in the nose, sneezing, coughing, and phlegm. It is also common to experience fever, headache, fatigue, muscle pain, and joint pain.
Many cases resolve naturally, but sometimes they can lead to secondary bacterial infections such as pneumonia. Flu and COVID-19 can cause similar symptoms to the common cold, but are treated separately.
In such cases, seek medical attention.
- High heat persists
- The cough won't stop
- Breathing is difficult
- When symptoms are severe or you are concerned about pneumonia
When it is okay to wait and see with over-the-counter medications; when it is better to see a doctor
For flu caused by viruses, there are no medications that directly target the virus itself. Treating the symptoms is the focus of the treatment, waiting for them to resolve naturally with rest and nutrition. If the symptoms are mild and you are getting enough fluids and food, you can take a break and observe the situation.
On the other hand, if you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above or need to distinguish between influenza and COVID-19, we recommend that you seek medical attention.
Tests performed at our clinic
Since the symptoms often dictate the diagnosis, and it is often impossible to identify the virus causing the infection, it is often not necessary to perform testing.
Influenza and COVID-19 are difficult to distinguish from the common cold, so if there is any doubt, a rapid test is performed using the fluid from the throat or nose.
When the symptoms are severe or if pneumonia is suspected, blood tests and X-rays may be performed.
medical treatment
We prescribe medications tailored to the symptoms, such as medications to relieve fever and pain, medications to relieve nasal congestion, and medications to relieve cough. When bacterial infection is suspected, antimicrobial drugs (antibiotics) may be used.
Frequently asked questions
Q. Can I be given antibiotics for the flu?
A. Most colds are caused by viruses; antibiotics do not work against viruses. They may be used when bacterial infection is suspected.
Q. Do I have to have the test done?
A. Most cases of the flu are diagnosed based on symptoms, and it is often not necessary to undergo testing. Tests are performed when suspected of influenza or the new coronavirus infection, or when pneumonia is a concern.
Q. What is the difference between the flu and the new coronavirus?
A. All of them are viral infections; although they may have symptoms similar to the flu, they are treated separately from the flu. Because symptoms alone are difficult to distinguish, if you have any doubts, you should have it checked by a test.