Knowing the Difference Between Cold and Influenza Symptoms

The common cold and influenza are both respiratory illnesses caused by viruses. A person has around a 20% chance of getting influenza but is likely to contract a cold 2-3 times in an average year. Because cold and flu illnesses have similar symptoms, it is crucial to understand what makes them different.

Difference Between Cold and Influenza Symptoms

The Common Cold Is Less Intense than the Flu

Colds usually have a much milder effect on a person than the flu or other respiratory viruses. According to the CDC, common cold symptoms often include the following:

Stuffy nose
Runny nose
Sneezing
Sore throat

Coughing can be present with either disease. People usually do not associate high fever, headache, and body aches with a cold.

The Influenza Virus: Felt Throughout Your Body

While colds are nuisances, the flu can make you feel like you’ve been run over by a truck.

Common Flu symptoms, according to the CDC, include:

Fever and chills
Coughing and sore throat
Nasal irritation, runny or stuffy nose
Headache and body aches
An overall feeling of fatigue or tiredness

Some people may also have vomiting and diarrhea, though that is more common in children than adults.

Getting the flu can result in serious health problems. Issues can include pneumonia, heart complications, and even death for people at higher risk. The flu can be especially dangerous for people with compromised immune systems, asthma, or heart disease.

A rapid test done at your primary doctor’s office or urgent care clinic can verify if you have the flu.

Treatment Involves Plenty of Rest and Avoidance

If you get sick with flu symptoms, in most cases, you should stay home and avoid contact with other people. Ensure you get plenty of rest and drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. Warm beverages like tea and warm lemon water can soothe a sore throat. You can take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen to help with fever or muscle aches.

However, you should get medical care if you feel it is necessary. Antiviral medications, if started early, can help shorten the length of your illness.

If you are in a high-risk group, very sick, or worried about your illness, contact your healthcare provider.

To reduce your chances of getting the flu, be sure to get your annual flu shot.

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