Flu and the Common Cold
The flu and the common cold are both respiratory illnesses but they are caused by different viruses. In general the flu is worse than the common cold. Colds develop gradually while the flu tends to start very suddenly. Sometimes it can be hard to tell if you have the flu or a cold.
Is it a cold or Do I have the Flu? - Compare cold vs. flu symptoms
|
Symptoms |
Cold |
Flu |
|
Fever |
Rare |
Usual; high (100-102 degrees; occasionally higher); lasts 3-4 days |
|
Headache |
Rare |
Common |
|
General Aches, Pains |
Slight |
Usual; often severe |
|
Fatigue, Weakness |
Sometimes |
Usual; can last 2-3 weeks |
|
Extreme Exhaustion |
Never |
Usual; at the beginning of illness |
|
Stuffy Nose |
Common |
Sometimes |
|
Sneezing |
Usual |
Sometimes |
|
Sore Throat |
Common |
Sometimes |
|
Chest Discomfort, Cough |
Mild to moderate; hacking cough |
Common; can become severe |
|
Treatment |
Antihistamines, Decongestant, Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines |
Antiviral medicines - see your healthcare provider |
|
Prevention |
Wash hands often, Avoid close contact with anyone infected |
Annual vaccination |
|
Complications |
Sinus congestion, Middle ear infection, Asthma |
Bronchitis, Pneumonia |
