What are the symptoms of the common cold?

A cold often begins with a sore throat or slight discomfort in the nose or sinuses. Other typical symptoms include a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, coughing, fatigue and watery eyes, and sometimes a low-grade fever, which is less common in adults but more common in children. Most symptoms are mild and peak within two to three days of the virus entering the body.

How long does a common cold last?

A typical cold lasts about 7 to 10 days. Symptoms usually improve gradually after the first few days, although a lingering cough or congestion can persist for up to two weeks. If a cold lasts longer than 14 days or symptoms worsen, it is worth consulting a doctor to rule out other conditions such as sinus infections or allergies.

How can the symptoms of a cold be relieved?

There is no cure for the common cold, but several measures can ease symptoms. Getting plenty of rest allows the body to focus on fighting the virus, and staying well hydrated with water, herbal teas and clear broths helps thin mucus. A humidifier adds moisture to the air, gargling with warm salt water soothes a sore throat, and a spoonful of honey in warm tea can ease a cough. Over-the-counter decongestants, antihistamines and pain relievers can also provide temporary relief.

What are the symptoms of the flu?

Flu symptoms appear after an incubation period of one to three days and often arrive suddenly and all at once. The illness generally begins with a high fever, which can peak at around 40 degrees, closely followed by joint pain, a cough, a sore throat, headaches and loss of appetite. While the fever usually disappears after about five days, the sore throat and cough can persist for up to two weeks.

How is the flu treated?

The flu usually passes on its own after about 8 days if there are no complications, so treatment focuses on relieving symptoms. Ibuprofen or paracetamol can reduce fever and ease headaches and aches, cough syrup and lozenges help with a sore throat or cough, and a nasal spray can relieve a blocked nose. Drinking plenty of water is important, and antibiotics are only used in the case of a bacterial superinfection such as sinusitis or pneumonia.

How is the flu transmitted?

The flu is transmitted by droplets that an infected person produces when they sneeze, speak, breathe or cough. Direct or indirect contact with these droplets on your mucous membranes is enough to infect you. This is why it is important not to touch your eyes, mouth or nose with unwashed hands, to wash your hands often, and to disinfect surfaces such as door handles, tables and mobile phones.

What is the incubation period for the flu?

A person generally shows signs of the flu between one and three days after infection. In some cases, flu symptoms can appear after only a few hours of incubation.

Why get vaccinated against the flu?

Vaccination against the flu protects both you and others who may be in poorer health. For a person in good health, it reduces the risk of infection as much as possible, while for people at risk it reduces the risk of complications. It also helps avoid infecting colleagues, friends and family.

Flu | Influenza | Flu symptoms | Cold in Switzerland: book an appointment online

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Flu | Influenza | Flu symptoms | Cold in Switzerland: book today an appointment online

What are the symptoms of the common cold?

How long does a common cold last?

How can the symptoms of a cold be relieved?

What are the symptoms of the flu?

How is the flu treated?

How is the flu transmitted?

What is the incubation period for the flu?

Why get vaccinated against the flu?

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