Knowing The Difference: Viral Cough Infection Vs. Bacterial Cough Infection

Winter is one such season wherein cases of coughing tend to rise. Knowing the difference between viral infection and bacterial infections could be helpful to seek timely medical attention.

Viral cough and bacterial cough are different and they can be differentiated based on the cause and symptoms.

Viral Cough is caused by viruses, like common viral influenza, rhinovirus, and coronaviruses. Such viruses are responsible for colds and flu.

Some common symptoms are, (i) runny nose, sneezing, and sore throat, (ii) It starts with a dry cough and increases with phlegm later. (iii) Mucus could be clear or cloudy, (iv) It starts with mild fevers & may go high in some cases, (v) Usually symptoms remain for a week or more while coughing may extend more than that.

Treatments for viral coughing are, (i) Antiviral medications if required & prescribed by the healthcare professional, (ii) OTC remedies like cough syrups, etc, fluids, and rest as common recommendations.

Bacterial Cough is caused by bacteria, like streptococcus pneumonia (pneumococcus) or bordetella pertussis (whooping cough). Commonly known bacterial infections are pneumonia and bronchitis which causes cough.

Some common symptoms are, (i) High grade and prolonged fevers, (ii) Usually the cough is productive and mucus is thicker, yellowish or greenish. (iii) Fatigue, chest pain, and shortness of breath could be observed, (iv) Symptoms last longer if timely treatment is not given and they may even worsen.

Treatments for bacterial coughing are, (i) the Healthcare professional recommends antibiotics for timely recovery and to avoid complications of pneumonia, (ii) OTC remedies may be suggested by the healthcare professional on a case-to-case basis and along with antibiotics.

Quick Check Points
(i) Fever -- Viral Cough Infection has mild fever while Bacterial Cough Infection has high grade and prolonged fever.
(ii) Mucus -- Viral Cough Infection has clear or cloudy mucus, while Bacterial Cough Infection has thicker, yellowish, or greenish mucus.
(iii) Time -- Viral Cough Infection symptoms are reduced in a week's time with a cough remaining for a week or two, while Bacterial Cough Infection requires medical treatment and it gets worsens if untreated.

We have compiled information that is intended to be helpful to parents. However, when it comes to children, it is crucial that parents consult a pediatrician.

Healthcare professionals can diagnose if it is a viral infection or bacterial infection and can provide treatment accordingly.

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