by Denise Calaman

Created on: February 06, 2009   Last Updated: February 15, 2009

The common cold and influenza viruses exhibit some of the same symptoms and many ill patients aren't sure if they have been stricken with a cold or the flu. These common viruses invade our homes, schools and offices and are the leading cause of doctors' visits from September until April each year, However, there are important differences between the two that you should be aware of to keep your family safe and comfortable if they should be struck with one of these viruses this year.

The Common Cold-

The common cold is by far the most common year round illness. There are over 200 different active cold viruses alive at any given time. Because there are so many different types of the cold virus our bodies never develop immunity to any of these viruses. Because of the sheer amount of cold viruses living on so many of the surfaces that we touch everyday it is not uncommon for preschoolers to catch up to 12 colds per year. Adults may catch two to four colds per year.

The cold virus is spread through direct hand to hand contact and can live on surfaces such as doorknobs and children's toys for several hours. The common cold may also be spread by coughing and sneezing.

Symptoms of the common cold can easily be confused with the flu and often patients will visit the doctor thinking they have the flu but have nothing more than the common cold. Onset of the common cold lasts over several days and may start with a sore throat. A patient may experience a mucus cough, a stuffy nose, accompanied by a headache, probably due to sinus congestion. He may also be suffering from sneezing and mild chest discomfort. A few patients may be slightly achy but this isn't a common symptom.

The common cold may last from three to 10 days. Doctors often prescribe rest and lots of fluids. Over the counter medications may relieve the symptoms of a cold for sufferers but nothing will cure the common cold. It simply has to run its course. Daily intake of vitamin C and zinc and good hand washing may help lessen your chances of catching a cold. Smoking and stress may increase your chances of catching a cold.

Influenza-

The influenza virus is a more serious virus than the common cold. Although it may produce some of the same symptoms they are usually more severe. Influenza is an uncomfortable illness for most of us but .1% of influenza cases result in fatalities each year in the United States.

The influenza virus is spread much like the common cold through hand to hand contact. While the onset of a cold

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