The Difference Between a Cold and the flu

Many people get bad colds and they think they have the flu when they do not. The truth is, the only way to know for sure if someone has the flu is to get the flu test and be medically diagnosed with the flu. To know whether you should get diagnosed or not, there are some signs you can look for to try to differentiate between the two.

Let’s look at some differences between a cold and the flu

Signs and Symptoms of a cold and the flu

There are numerous signs and symptoms of colds and flu that seem the same. Symptoms like fever, aches, chills, fatigue, weakness, sneezing, stuffy nose, sore throat, runny nose, cough, chest discomfort, and headache.

When it comes to a cold, it’s rare to get a fever, aches, and pains, or to have a headache. So those are some clues for you to keep an eye out for the severity of your illness. The flu is always much more harsh and severe than a cold, even when they share symptoms.

The Biggest Differentiator between the Cold and the flu

It is the severity of the symptoms and the quickness to which they started and got worse that can mean the difference between a cold and the flu. The flu often attacks very quickly, even overnight. You can go to bed fine and then by the time you wake up, you are very sick.

Fever is rare with a cold, but it is normal for people with the flu to have a fever and it should be considered one of the first signs your cold is not a cold. However, you really won’t know for sure unless you get diagnosed by a physician.

It’s Flu Season

If it’s flu season and you come down with an illness with the above symptoms, and you did not have a flu shot, you might want to assume flu and act accordingly. Look after yourself by staying home, resting, and staying hydrated while treating your symptoms to keep them from being too harsh with over-the-counter medications or home remedies.

Common Questions about Colds and Flu

The symptoms for the common cold and flu are often very similar. Both can result in a runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing, sore throat, cough, and headache, but the flu also includes (or may include) fever, muscle aches, and pains, fatigue, vomiting, and diarrhea.

When addressing any issue with cold or flu, it’s important to know that unless you get a proper diagnosis, you have no idea whether something is a common cold or the flu.

When Should I Go to the Doctor?

See your doctor if your fever gets over 103 degrees F.

You’ve had a fever for more than 48 hours.

Your breathing is fast or troubled.

Or you are experiencing wheezing.

Other symptoms that suggest a doctor visit are a change in skin color, ear drainage, earache, or problems waking up. Of course, get emergency help if there are seizures, or symptoms are worsening.

How Do I Know When to Stay Home from Work or School?

Each school has rules about when you can send your child. For most schools, this means being fever, diarrhea, and vomiting free for at least 24 hours. However, if you have a lot of coughing and sinus drainage that cannot be controlled with meds, you should stay home too.

Will Antibiotics Make Me Better?

Antibiotics are made to treat bacterial infections. If you don’t have one – and a cold or the flu is not (it’s a virus), then it won’t help you at all and could make things worse. You may need them if you have a bacterial co-infection.

What Ways Can I Avoid Passing on the Illness?

To avoid passing on your illness, wash your hands, throw out tissues, and stay home if you have a fever or believe you’re contagious. Separate sick children from the family when you can. Teach kids to cover their mouth and nose with their arm when they cough or sneeze. Remember to disinfect common areas regularly.

Is It Okay to Eat If I Have a Cold or the Flu?

You can eat when you are sick if you feel like eating.

You don’t have to if you don’t feel like it, unless you have a co-illness that requires food (such as diabetes).

When Should I Get a Flu Shot?

You can watch the flu map in your area to judge when to get the shot, or you can get it in October or November each year when they start giving them out. You’ll see TV and internet commercials when they come out. It’s never too late to get it if flu is around your area.

How Long Will I Be Sick?

It really depends on the person, but most people will contract and fully recover from a cold or flu within two weeks from start to finish. Some residual tiredness can last longer, though. If you ended up with any co-infections, it could be longer too.

Colds and flu are part of life.

Almost everyone will contract a cold a few times a year. Some of them will be worse than others. You can avoid the flu if you get flu shots regularly and practice general protection such as hand washing, disinfecting, and avoiding touching your face when you are around people who may be sick.

If You’re in an At-Risk Population

The flu doesn’t always harm a person’s health after the fact. Children under five and the elderly, as well as anyone who has another illness to deal with, are most susceptible to complications.

If you come down with any of these symptoms, especially if they are severe, you should automatically call your doctor. Schedule a time to be tested for the flu and be monitored if necessary.

Colds and the flu often have the same types of symptoms.

It depends on how severe the symptoms are and how fast they come on that can signify potential flu. If you know people with the flu or it’s in your area, assume the flu. Then get tested or treat it accordingly to ensure you remain healthy.