When trying to discern between having a cold and COVID-19, here are two lesser-known but important health facts to consider:
1. Loss of Taste and Smell
- COVID-19: A sudden and significant loss of taste (ageusia) or smell (anosmia) without nasal congestion is more characteristic of COVID-19 than a common cold. This symptom can occur early in the course of the illness and may even be the only symptom for some people. It’s not typically seen with a common cold, where any loss of smell or taste usually results from nasal congestion.
- Cold: In a common cold, if there is any loss of smell or taste, it is usually mild and related to nasal congestion or a runny nose. The loss is often partial and improves as the congestion clears.
2. Duration and Onset of Symptoms
- COVID-19: Symptoms of COVID-19 often develop gradually, over several days, and can last longer than those of a cold. Common symptoms like fever, fatigue, and cough can persist for weeks, and some people experience lingering symptoms, known as “long COVID,” for months.
- Cold: The common cold typically has a more abrupt onset of symptoms, such as a sore throat, runny nose, and cough, which usually appear suddenly and peak within a few days. Most cold symptoms resolve within a week to 10 days, and the severity of symptoms tends to decrease as the immune system clears the virus.
Recognizing these nuances can help you better differentiate between a cold and COVID-19, especially in the early stages of illness. However, testing remains the most reliable way to confirm whether symptoms are due to COVID-19.