As we go through different seasons, sometimes we get confused because certain symptoms can make us wonder if we have a common ailment. One example is trying to figure out if we have the chills or just a regular cold. Both can make us feel similar, but it's important to know the small differences to identify the right problem and treat it correctly. We spoke to our expert Dr Sundhari Venkateswaran, Senior ENT Surgeon, Apollo Spectra Hospital, Chennai, who explained the difference between these ailments.
What Are Chills?
Chills, often misunderstood as synonymous with feeling cold, actually denote a physiological response generated by the body to combat infection or illness. “When faced with an invading pathogen, the body elevates its internal temperature to create an inhospitable environment for the intruder, leading to chills”, informed Dr Venkateswaran.
The sensation typically involves trembling, shivering, and a perception of coldness, despite adequate clothing or ambient temperature.
Dr Venkateswaran added, “These chills are usually accompanied by a fever, which serves as a hallmark sign of the body's immune response at work. They might also be experienced before the onset of fever, signalling the body's preparatory phase to combat an impending infection.”
Understanding Common Cold
“In contrast, the common cold is a viral infection primarily affecting the upper respiratory tract. Rhinoviruses, among others, are the usual culprits behind this prevalent ailment”, added Dr Venkateswaran. Symptoms of a cold often encompass a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, sneezing, coughing, mild fatigue, and occasionally, a low-grade fever.
It's essential to note that while chills can be part of the initial stages of certain viral infections, they are not exclusive to the common cold. The presence of chills without any other symptoms might point towards a more systemic issue or a different illness altogether.
Distinguishing Factors Between Chills And Common Cold
Dr Venkateswaran listed the differentiating factors between chills and the common cold as follows:
Onset and Duration
Chills typically appear suddenly and are transient, often preceding or accompanying a fever. On the other hand, symptoms of the common cold tend to develop gradually over a day or two, lingering for about a week before subsiding.
According to Elsevier, in most cases, the duration of symptoms is 7–10 days, but some last longer than 3 weeks. The severity of symptoms typically increases quickly, peaking 2-3 days after infection.
Fever as a Marker
Chills are commonly associated with a fever, whereas the common cold might entail a mild increase in body temperature but not necessarily chills.
Also Read: Should You Self-Medicate If You Have A Fever: Doctor Shares Do's And Don'ts
Other Associated Symptoms
While chills predominantly indicate a systemic response to an infection, the common cold encompasses a spectrum of symptoms targeting the upper respiratory system.
Severity of Symptoms
Chills are a component of the body's response to an infection and might indicate a more intense immune reaction, whereas the common cold symptoms are generally milder in comparison.
Seeking Medical Attention
Dr Venkateswaran highlighted, “While chills can accompany various viral or bacterial infections, persistent, severe chills without any apparent cause or accompanying symptoms should prompt medical evaluation.” Also, if symptoms associated with the common cold worsen or persist beyond the usual duration, a healthcare professional's assessment becomes imperative to rule out any complications or secondary infections.
Bottomline
Dr Venkateswaran concluded, “Distinguishing between chills and the common cold hinges on recognising their distinct characteristics. While chills serve as a bodily response to systemic infections, the common cold specifically targets the upper respiratory system. Monitoring symptom progression and understanding the context of their onset aids in accurate identification and appropriate management.”
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by a registered healthcare professional and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your expert if the symptoms persist for a longer time.]