Determining whether your symptoms are caused by a common cold or COVID-19 requires careful consideration of several factors. While some symptoms overlap, key differences exist.
Key Differences Between Cold and COVID-19
The Mayo Clinic provides a helpful comparison of symptoms:
| Symptom | COVID-19 | Cold |
|---|---|---|
| Fever | Usually | Sometimes |
| Diarrhea | Sometimes | Never |
| Nausea/Vomiting | Sometimes | Never |
| Loss of Taste/Smell | Usually (early, often without nasal symptoms) | Sometimes (especially with stuffy nose) |
Several other sources highlight additional distinctions:
- Severity: COVID-19 can range from mild to severe, while colds tend to be milder. A sudden onset of high fever, body aches and significant fatigue points towards COVID-19 (NIH News in Health).
- Cough: While both can cause coughs, COVID-19 coughs are sometimes described as more persistent or dry (National Institute on Aging). A wet cough might suggest a common cold (Cleveland Clinic).
- Additional Symptoms: COVID-19 frequently presents with a loss of taste or smell, a symptom less common in colds (Mayo Clinic).
When to Seek Medical Attention
If you experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, or confusion, seek immediate medical attention. Regardless of whether you suspect a cold or COVID-19, consulting a healthcare professional is always advisable for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.
