7 dangerous diseases that can easily be mistaken for a cold (8 photos)
Autumn and winter are the peak seasons for catching a cold. Stepping outside just once without dressing appropriately for the weather can trigger the first symptoms of illness: a runny nose, body aches, nasal congestion, and sneezing. While you will likely feel healthy again within a few days, a cold can sometimes escalate into far more serious conditions—often without the person even realizing it.
Below, we outline seven such illnesses and their primary symptoms. 
Sore throat 
A cold is frequently accompanied by an unpleasant "scratchy" sensation in the throat. However, if the pain becomes unbearable, do not try to tough it out; instead, see a doctor as soon as possible. There is a high probability that you have developed strep throat, which requires treatment with antibiotics.
Ear pain 
Mucus and phlegm that accumulate in the throat and nose during a cold can easily find their way into the ear, causing inflammation and secondary infection. This happens far more often than we would like, so if you experience the first signs of ear pain, consult a specialist. Under no circumstances should you self-prescribe ear drops or—worse yet—apply heat to the ear with a lamp!
Body aches and pains 
The symptoms of the flu and the common cold are strikingly similar, especially in the early stages. However, there is one sign that is characteristic specifically of the flu: body-wide aches and pains, including discomfort in internal organs such as the stomach. If you experience this alongside a runny nose and a scratchy throat, see a doctor—you need treatment for the flu, as this illness, unlike the common cold, carries a risk of numerous complications.
Prolonged Cough 
You’re reaching the end of your bottle of cough syrup, yet you’re still sick... Be aware: this isn't normal! If you have a cough that hasn't gone away after about two weeks, go to a doctor immediately—it could indicate bronchitis or even pneumonia.
Breathing Difficulties 
Since a cold is an upper respiratory tract infection, minor breathing difficulties are typical. However, if you experience shortness of breath, wheezing, or a feeling of breathlessness, it is time to see a specialist; you may have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD. Patients with a history of pneumonia and older adults are at particular risk of developing COPD. They should pay close attention to their health and take measures to prevent colds and the flu during the colder months.
Prolonged illness 
A common cold typically lasts no more than five to seven days; if a week has passed and you are still feeling unwell, you are likely dealing with something more serious. For instance, a cold could easily have developed into sinusitis—an inflammation of the lining of one or more paranasal sinuses—accompanied by headaches, fever, heavy nasal discharge, and a sensation of heaviness in the sinus or forehead areas.
Bowel issues 
This might seem obvious, yet doctors often find that patients mistake bowel irregularities for cold symptoms and do not take them seriously enough. However, nausea, bloody diarrhea, and other such disorders are more likely caused by food poisoning or even gastroenteritis. In any case, you should consult a doctor rather than attempting to treat yourself.
