Cold or Flu? How to Tell the Difference

Colds and the flu can cause many of the same symptoms. Both can make you cough, feel tired and have a stuffy or runny nose. However, there are some differences that may help you tell them apart.

Is It a Cold or the Flu?

Cold symptoms are usually milder and may develop slowly. Common symptoms include:

• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sneezing
• Sore throat
• Cough

Flu symptoms often come on more suddenly and can make you feel much sicker. Symptoms may include:

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Headache
• Muscle or body aches
• Tiredness

Not everyone with the flu will have a fever.

What Should You Do If You Feel Sick?

Getting plenty of rest and drinking fluids can help your body recover. Over-the-counter medicines may help with certain symptoms, such as fever, aches, cough or congestion.

Ask your pharmacist or health care provider which medicines are safe for you, especially if you take other medications or have other health conditions.

If you think you may have the flu, contact your health care provider. Prescription antiviral medicines can help treat the flu and work best when started early.

When Should You Get Medical Help?

Most people recover from a cold or the flu at home. However, seek medical care if you have trouble breathing, chest pain, severe weakness or symptoms that are getting worse.

Young children, older adults, pregnant women and people with certain health conditions may have a greater risk of serious problems from the flu.

Knowing the difference between a cold and the flu can help you decide how to manage your symptoms and when to seek care.

Sources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, "Cold Versus Flu"
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, "Signs and Symptoms of Flu"
• National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, "Common Cold"