Cold vs Flu Facts and Symptoms
The leaves are falling and the sun is going down sooner everyday. Fall is here and Winter is not far behind which means that the Cold and Flu season is approaching quickly. Often times it is difficult for people to tell the difference between a common cold and the influenza, but this helpful chart from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease is a great resource which breaks down the different symptoms associated with Colds and the Flu.
Is It a Cold or the Flu?
| Symptoms | Cold | Flu |
|---|---|---|
| Fever | Rare | Usual; high (100°F to 102°F; occasionally higher, especially in young children); lasts 3 to 4 days |
| Headache | Rare | Common |
| General Aches, Pains | Slight | Usual; often severe |
| Fatigue, Weakness | Sometimes | Usual; can last up to 2 to 3 weeks |
| Extreme Exhaustion | Never | Usual; at the beginning of the 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 your hands often with soap and water; Avoid close contact with anyone with a cold | Annual vaccination; antiviral medicines—see your healthcare provider |
| Complications | Sinus infection Middle ear infection Asthma |
Bronchitis, pneumonia; can worsen chronic conditions; can be life threatening. Complications more likely in the elderly, those with chronic conditions, young children, and pregnant women |
