“All these respiratory viruses manifest in a similar way. It can be very difficult to distinguish between any of these without a doctor’s examination or relevant test. All these diseases can confuse us. All of them can be mistaken for a common cold ,” says Dr. Linda Yancey, an infectious disease specialist at Memorial Hermann Hospital.

Because COVID-19 , the common cold , and the flu share many similar symptoms, including a runny nose, sore throat, cough, fatigue, and muscle aches, Dr. Jay W. Lee, a board member of the American Academy of Family Physicians, agrees that it’s common to confuse them.

Dr. Lee explained some differences:

  • Cold symptoms are generally milder than flu symptoms and may develop slowly.
  • Flu symptoms are usually more severe, but additionally include chills, sweats, and fever.
  • RSV can cause a runny nose, cough, sneezing, decreased appetite, and, in young children, irritability, lack of energy, and difficulty breathing.
  • Loss of taste or smell is more common in COVID-19.
  • Unlike RSV and the common cold, the flu and COVID-19 can also cause some gastrointestinal symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

How long do cold-like symptoms last?

Cold symptoms usually take 1-3 days to develop and can last up to 10 days.

“If you find that you’re not getting enough rest or staying hydrated, your cold symptoms may linger longer. Your body needs plenty of rest and good hydration to fight off a cold or other infection ,” says Dr. Lee.

Nasal congestion and coughing can often persist for several days after other symptoms, such as a sore throat and runny nose, subside, added Dr. Yancey.

If your symptoms last longer than two weeks, it’s safe to see a doctor , who can diagnose your condition and determine if there’s an underlying problem or if treatment is needed.

“If the fever is persistent and higher than 38°C or does not respond to antipyretics or if the cough develops into difficulty breathing, make an appointment with a doctor ,” advises Dr. Lee.

CAUTION: People with chronic conditions may be more vulnerable to complications from the common cold and should talk to their doctor as soon as symptoms begin or if they know they have been exposed to an illness.

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Why antibiotics do not fight common cold, flu and RSV

Antibiotics help fight infections caused by bacteria (not viruses), such as strep, whooping cough, and urinary tract infections, by killing the bacteria or making it harder for them to grow and multiply.

Taking antibiotics for viral infections, such as colds and flu, does not eliminate the infection, does not stop it from spreading, and does not make a person feel better.

In fact, taking antibiotics for viruses can backfire on your health by increasing your risk of developing an antibiotic-resistant bacterial infection. Antibiotic resistance is one of the most urgent threats to public health, according to the World Health Organization.

Over-the-counter medications for cold-like symptoms

Pseudoephedrine is a powerful decongestant that can help people feel better, according to Dr. Yancey.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, can help manage a sore throat and headache, as well as reduce fever, she added.

For sore throats, other over-the-counter remedies include throat sprays or lozenges. To loosen the mucus and moisturize the tender skin inside your nose, Dr. Lee suggests saline nose drops.

He recommended the following ways to relieve cold, flu and COVID-19 symptoms at home:

  • Gargle with warm salt water a few times a day to ease a sore throat
  • Drink plenty of fluids, such as water and clear soups
  • Avoid caffeine and alcohol
  • Stay and rest at home, especially when you have a fever

“Don’t forget during the colder months, it’s especially important for patients to take precautions like washing their hands, staying away from others who are sick, staying home when they’re sick, and getting vaccinated against the flu , COVID- 19 and the RSV” , concluded Dr. Lee.