fbpixel

Our website uses cookies to help enhance your browsing experience. Continue to browse our site if you agree to our use of cookies as described in Unilab's Cookie Policy .

For information on how we protect your privacy, please read our Privacy Policy .

What is the Difference Between a Cold and the Flu

What is the Difference Between a Cold and the Flu

You think it’s just a cold, but your friends and family worry that it might be the flu.


Stuffy nose, scratchy throat, headaches— is it a cold or the flu?

Do you have the cold or the flu?

You think it’s just a cold, but your friends and family worry that it might be the flu. But does the difference really matter? Absolutely, according to experts. The flu is caused by the influenza virus, and because there are only a few variants of the virus, it is relatively easy to treat once you have it. On the other hand, with over 200 other viruses that can trigger it, a cold can be trickier to treat. Here is a handy visual that can help you recognize if you have a cold or the flu based on your symptoms.

What is the Difference Between a Cold and the Flu?

COLD   FLU
Sometimes Headache Very common
Runny, stuffy Nose Runny, stuffy
Low or none Fever High
Mild, hacking cough Cough Severe cough
Very common Sneezing Sometimes
Slight aches Aches Severe pains
Sore Throat Sometimes sore
Mild Fatigue Can last for several weeks
Normal; may feel sluggish Energy Extreme exhaustion
Symptoms may last for 7-10 days Duration Symptoms may last for several weeks

 

How to relieve cold symptoms

  • Increase fluid intake.
  • Rest
  • For chapped skin around nose and lips, apply petroleum jelly.
  • Take doctor recommended medication for your symptoms.

Was this article helpful?

Related Products