Cough, Fever, Fatigue? Which Bug is Bugging You? A Guide To Seasonal Respiratory Illnesses

by Kristy Como Armand 

Each year, the fall and winter months bring an increase in respiratory illnesses, and with it, questions and concerns about how to recognize and manage symptoms. 

“Even before the emergence of COVID, it could be difficult during flu season for people to know if their respiratory symptoms were caused by the flu, pneumonia, a cold or something else,” says Brenton Smith, MD, family medicine physician with Imperial Health. “Now, with COVID still circulating alongside all these other common seasonal conditions, it’s important to understand the similarities and differences so you know when to seek care.” 

Dr. Smith explains while these conditions may look similar, they differ in their causes. COVID is caused by the coronavirus, the flu is caused by influenza viruses, colds are usually caused by rhinoviruses, and pneumonia can be viral, bacterial or fungal. All share overlapping symptoms that affect the respiratory system—airways, lungs and blood vessels. 

The most common symptoms of respiratory illness include: 

• Fever (more than 100°F) 

• Chills 

• Headache 

• Cough 

• Muscle pain and body aches 

• Weakness or fatigue 

• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea (more common in children) 

Some differences can help distinguish between symptoms of flu, COVID, pneumonia and a cold: 

Symptom onset: Flu symptoms usually appear suddenly, within one to four days of infection. COVID-19 symptoms often develop more gradually. Colds tend to be milder, with congestion and a runny nose more prominent, while pneumonia may include chest pain, shortness of breath and a deep cough with phlegm. 

Cough: COVID and pneumonia often cause a persistent, sometimes severe cough, while cold and flu coughs are usually milder. 

Unique symptoms: Loss of taste or smell is more specific to COVID, while nasal congestion is common with colds. Pneumonia is more likely to cause difficulty breathing, chest tightness or low oxygen levels. 

Because symptoms overlap and vary from person to person, Dr. Smith stresses that the only way to confirm a diagnosis is through testing and evaluation by a healthcare provider. “If you’re unsure whether your symptoms point to flu, COVID, pneumonia, or just a cold, allergies or sinusitis, talk with your provider. The right diagnosis makes all the difference in treatment and recovery.” 

Prevention remains key. Dr. Smith says vaccines are available for flu, pneumonia and COVID, and healthy habits, including handwashing, covering coughs, avoiding close contact when sick and maintaining good overall wellness, help reduce the spread of all respiratory illnesses. “Taking simple preventive steps and seeking care when you’re not sure are the best ways to protect yourself and your family,” he adds. 

Dr. Smith is accepting new patients. Call 337-433-1212 to schedule an appointment.