A physician from Sharp Medical Group has shed light on the phenomenon of extended colds, drawing parallels between the symptoms of Covid-19 and those of protracted colds.
Dr. Abisola Olulade, MD at Sharp Medical Group, stated that "A cold will typically resolve within a week to ten days." However, she also pointed out that "some people may experience lingering symptoms that will go on for weeks, months or more."
In an extensive study involving over 10,000 participants, researchers sought to understand the long-term effects of both COVID and non-COVID illnesses on health. The findings revealed that twenty-two percent of individuals who contracted either COVID or a non-COVID illness experienced prolonged symptoms extending beyond four weeks. While medical professionals have acknowledged 'long COVID' as a condition, this study suggests the existence of a 'long cold' as well. Dr. Olulade noted: "While long COVID is now a recognized condition affecting millions, there have been few studies comparing long-term symptoms following COVID-19 infection versus other respiratory infections," according to a news release from Sharp Health News.
The study found both similarities and differences in the symptoms associated with long COVID and a long cold. For instance, persistent COVID symptoms included loss of taste and smell, dizziness, and brain fog. In contrast, an extended cold often manifested in symptoms such as diarrhea, coughing, and stomach aches. It's well known among medical professionals that diseases like Ebola and Epstein-Barr virus - colloquially known as mono - can have enduring impacts on an individual’s health. This research implies that even common ailments like a cold can have significant effects too.
Certain individuals are more prone to experiencing prolonged cold symptoms than others. According to Dr. Olulade: "Underlying health conditions can make you more susceptible to a severe infection, which could mean a greater likelihood of developing a long infection." She also emphasized the importance of prevention as the best defense against enduring symptoms of COVID and other illnesses. She advised: "It’s important to stay up to date on all vaccinations, avoid close contact with people who are sick, and practice healthy habits," as per a news release from Sharp Health News.
