It is important for individuals to understand the difference between cold and flu symptoms. Many people rely on their doctor to assess whether they have symptoms of a cold or flu, although it can be very useful for individuals to learn the difference of symptoms in these two types of viruses. It is also essential that individuals know when certain symptoms can become dangerous and when to seek medical attention. Overall, understanding cold and flu symptoms can be very helpful in many ways.
Both cold and flu symptoms can initially make individuals feel ill, although flu symptoms tend to last longer. While cold symptoms can make individuals feel ill for a few days, flu symptoms can sometimes last up to two weeks.
Frequent Flu Symptoms
Both the traditional flu and a more serious flu virus can result in severe health issues, causing individuals to be hospitalized. Flu symptoms often come on strong and fast (3-6 hours) and consist of aches, fever, dry cough and weakness.
Both traditional flu and more serious flu symptoms (such as swine flu) may include:
- Sore throat
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Weakness
- Congestion
- Cough
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Most flu symptoms steadily get better within five days, although some feel ill for over a week or more. It is possible for the flu to become dangerous by causing pneumonia. This can be especially harmful to young children and the elderly. If a person already has existing heart or lung problems, it is best to visit the doctor right away for observation. Important things to watch for are shortness of breath and a persistent fever that comes back after already improving.
Common Cold Symptoms
Colds are common and most everyone has experienced cold symptoms more than once in their life. Some individuals experience a cold several times a year. Over 200 types of viruses can cause colds. The most common virus is a Rhinovirus, which translates to “nose virus.” Cold symptoms often consist of a stuffy or runny nose, sneezing, scratchy or sore throat (not severe) and some fatigue. Adults who experience cold symptoms most often do not obtain a fever, although it is quite common for infants and toddlers to run a light fever (up to 102 degrees).
Cold symptoms include:
- Nasal congestion (stuffy or runny nose)
- Cough
- Scratchy or sore throat (More of an irritation, rather than severe tenderness)
- Some fatigue
- Fever (in small children)
- Headache
Understanding the Difference Between Cold and Flu Symptoms
Both colds and flu viruses are a respiratory illness and it can sometimes be difficult to tell the difference, based on symptoms. Flu symptoms are definitely more intense than cold symptoms and they cause a person to become much more worn-out than with a common cold. Although symptoms may vary, colds are most often much milder than the flu.
After individuals do their part to understand the difference between cold and flu symptoms, it can be much easier to decide on whether they should seek medical attention or not. If a person is having a very difficult time telling whether their symptoms are cold or flu related, it is best to visit the doctor for reassurance.
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