Coronavirus: People with COVID are more likely to experience scratchiness than those with a cold

In the past, it was easy to differentiate COVID symptoms from those of cold and flu. However, with new variants and changing dominant symptoms, it is quite easy to get confused between the two.

Sore throat is currently one of the common symptoms caused by the Omicron variant. According to health experts, there are certain specifications about this symptom which can help you identify whether it is a sign of COVID or cold and flu. In any case, it is best to take all precautionary measures and treatment. The best way to identify COVID is to get tested.

A sore throat can be caused by both COVID and cold. However, experts have noted that in a COVID sore throat, you are bound to experience more pain and scratchiness, especially while swallowing something.

In many cases, patients also feel dryness and irritation which could be caused by inflammation in the back of their throat.

Compared to other sore throats, a COVID sore throat may feel worse on the first day of infection but gets better on each following day. A COVID sore throat usually appears in the first week of the infection and may improve quickly. According to health experts, it usually lasts no more than five days. You should consult your doctor again if you continue to suffer from sore throat for over five days.

Read more: Coronavirus: Possible symptoms that can tell if you have COVID-19, cold or the flu

Along with any medication prescribed by your doctor, here are some expert recommended tips for soothing sore throat and recovering faster:

• Gargle with warm, salty water (not for children)

• Drink plenty of water and fluids

• Eat soft foods

• Eat honey

• Avoid smoking or passive smoking

• Take plenty of rest

Here are some ways to avoid getting that scratchy feeling at the back of your throat:

-Stay away from people who are sick

-Wash your hands often, especially before meals and after returning home from outside

-Avoid sharing food, drink, or utensils with others

-Keep your hands away from your eyes and face

-Eat a healthy and balanced diet

-Get plenty of rest

-Drink lots of water and other non-sugary fluids

-Stop smoking and avoid secondhand smoke too

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Along with sore throat, here are some other common symptoms of COVID-19 that everyone should be aware of:

-High temperature or shivering

-Continuous cough

-Loss or change in sense of smell or taste

-Shortness of breath

-Feeling exhausted

-Aching body

-Headache

-Blocked or runny nose

-Loss of appetite

-Diarrhea

-Feeling sick