Cold vs COVID: 20 Key Differences Everyone Should Know

2. Unique Symptoms of COVID-19

Woman trying to sense smell of half fresh orange, has symptoms of Covid-19 loss of smell and taste. Photo Credit: Envato @Dimaberlin

Despite the similarities, COVID-19 presents certain symptoms that are less common in the common cold. One of the hallmark symptoms of COVID-19 is the loss of taste or smell, which can occur even in the absence of nasal congestion. This symptom has been particularly useful in helping individuals differentiate between COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses. Additionally, COVID-19 can cause more severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, and confusion, which are not typically associated with the common cold. Moreover, COVID-19 can lead to systemic symptoms like gastrointestinal issues, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. These symptoms further complicate the clinical picture and highlight the importance of considering a broader range of symptoms when assessing possible COVID-19 infection. Recognizing these unique symptoms is critical in ensuring timely testing and isolation to prevent further spread of the virus.

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