GP Warns of Key COVID-19 Symptom Amid Winter Illnesses Surge

A General Practitioner has issued a warning highlighting a significant symptom that may indicate a COVID-19 infection, particularly as cases of cold and flu rise during the winter months. Dr. Rupa Parmar, a medical director at Midland Health, emphasized the importance of distinguishing between these illnesses, as many symptoms overlap. Proper identification is crucial for receiving adequate treatment.

Dr. Parmar explained that one of the most telling signs of COVID-19 is shortness of breath, which is generally uncommon in both cold and flu cases. She pointed out that COVID-19 primarily impacts the lungs, leading to this particular symptom. According to the NHS, shortness of breath is recognized as a strong indicator of COVID-19 rather than flu or a common cold.

“Shortness of breath is rare in both a cold and the flu, but as COVID more so affects the lungs due to inflammation, it is a common symptom,” Dr. Parmar stated, as reported by Surrey Live. This symptom is more frequently linked with COVID-19 and conditions like respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). However, it is important to note that if a flu patient does not recover and their condition deteriorates, they may experience breathing difficulties, possibly due to pneumonia.

Identifying Symptoms: Coughs and Sensory Loss

The nature of coughs associated with these illnesses also varies. Dr. Parmar elaborated on this aspect, noting that while coughs are prevalent in all three viruses, they exhibit distinct characteristics. A mild cough typically accompanies a cold, whereas the flu often presents with a dry cough. In contrast, a COVID-19 cough is described as dry and persistent, with many individuals coughing for over an hour or experiencing multiple episodes throughout the day.

Another symptom that Dr. Parmar identified as more prevalent in COVID-19 cases is the loss of smell or taste. She explained, “A loss of taste or smell is a symptom somewhat unique to COVID-19. If you are experiencing either a change in taste or a complete loss, it is most likely that you have the coronavirus.”

The GP went on to emphasize that the combination and severity of symptoms can help determine which virus is present. A mild cough and sore throat may suggest a common cold, while a high fever and significant fatigue typically indicate the flu. In contrast, a loss of taste or smell coupled with a continuous cough points strongly to COVID-19.

Symptom Onset and Health Guidance

Dr. Parmar also highlighted variations in the onset of symptoms across these illnesses. She noted that cold symptoms usually develop gradually, flu symptoms arise suddenly within hours, and COVID-19 symptoms can start mild but may worsen over time. While a cold primarily affects the throat and nose, flu and COVID-19 symptoms can manifest throughout the body.

Despite the lifting of self-isolation requirements, the NHS continues to recommend that individuals exhibiting symptoms stay at home and reduce contact with others. The health service advises, “You can return to your normal activities when you feel better or do not have a high temperature.”

As winter progresses, public health officials urge vigilance in recognizing these symptoms to ensure timely medical intervention. Understanding the differences among cold, flu, and COVID-19 symptoms can play a critical role in managing health and preventing the spread of illness during this season.