How does common cold differ from pneumonia?

Pneumonia affects the lungs, while the common cold affects the nose and respiratory passage but not the lungs.

Pneumonia is a disease that affects the alveoli, which are the air-filled sacs in the lungs. Bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae are commonly responsible for causing pneumonia in humans. When these bacteria infect the alveoli, it leads to the accumulation of fluid in the air sacs, resulting in difficulty in breathing.The symptoms of pneumonia typically include fever, chills, cough, and headache. In more severe cases, the lips and finger nails may exhibit a gray to bluish coloration, indicating a lack of oxygen in the blood.Pneumonia is usually transmitted from one person to another through respiratory droplets or aerosols. When an infected person coughs or sneezes, tiny droplets containing the bacteria can be released into the air. Inhaling these droplets or aerosols can lead to infection in a healthy person.Additionally, sharing contaminated objects like glasses and utensils with an infected person can also contribute to the spread of pneumonia. Bacteria can survive on surfaces and objects for a certain period, and if a healthy person comes into contact with these contaminated objects and then touches their face or mouth, they may become infected.It is important to practice good respiratory hygiene, such as covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, to prevent the spread of pneumonia. Proper hand hygiene and avoiding close contact with infected individuals can also help reduce the risk of transmission.

 The common cold is a highly contagious viral infection that primarily affects the nose and respiratory passage but not the lungs. One group of viruses known as rhinoviruses is responsible for causing the common cold.Symptoms of the common cold include nasal congestion and discharge, sore throat, hoarseness, cough, headache, and tiredness. These symptoms typically last for a period of 3-7 days.The transmission of the common cold occurs through droplets that are released when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can be directly inhaled by a healthy person, leading to infection.