Do You Have a Cold or the Flu?
Both the common cold and the flu are viral illnesses, but they have distinct differences. Recognizing the symptoms can help you determine whether you need to see a doctor or simply rest at home.
Flu Symptoms
Unlike a cold, flu symptoms appear suddenly and tend to be more severe. Common flu symptoms include:
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High fever
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Muscle and joint aches
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Extreme fatigue
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Watery eyes
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Severe sore throat
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Dry cough
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Runny nose
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Possible diarrhea
If you experience any of the following severe symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:
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Difficulty breathing or shallow breathing
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Severe chest or stomach pain
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Sudden dizziness
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Persistent vomiting
Flu Treatment
The best way to recover from the flu is to rest and stay hydrated with plenty of fluids such as tea or orange juice. Avoid exposure to additional germs. Doctors typically prescribe antiviral medications only in severe cases, as antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections.
Cold Symptoms
Cold symptoms develop gradually and are generally milder than flu symptoms. Common cold symptoms include:
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Sore throat that may come and go
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Runny nose
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Nasal congestion
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Coughing
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Low-grade fever (around 99°F)
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Runny nose that thickens over time
Cold Treatment
Since cold symptoms develop over several days, you may first notice a sore throat, followed by congestion and coughing. Children are more likely to have a low-grade fever. The presence of thick or dark mucus does not necessarily indicate a bacterial infection.
Cold symptoms typically last 7-10 days. To recover more quickly, get plenty of rest, drink fluids, and consider using over-the-counter decongestants to ease congestion and improve sleep.
Conclusion
While both the cold and flu are viral infections, flu symptoms are more severe and come on suddenly. Knowing the difference can help you take the right steps for a quicker recovery. When in doubt, consult a medical professional.
Health Staff Writer
Swanepoel, C., & Binns, A. (2021). Wearable sensors to detect influenza and the common cold before symptom onse
