Flu and cold symptoms can overlap, making it tricky to tell them apart. However, generally, flu symptoms are more severe and appear suddenly, while cold symptoms are milder and develop gradually.
Key Differences: Flu vs. Cold
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/coldflu.html highlights that flu symptoms often include:
- Fever or feeling feverish/chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headaches
- Fatigue (tiredness)
In contrast, colds typically present with milder symptoms, and a runny or stuffy nose is more common with a cold. Many sources, including the Cleveland Clinic https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12342-common-cold, emphasize that colds usually resolve within a week. The flu, however, can lead to more serious complications. WebMD https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/flu-cold-symptoms notes that flu symptoms are typically more intense and appear quickly. High fever and body aches are often strong indicators of the flu, as noted by Harvard Health https://www.health.harvard.edu/topic_pages/cold-flu.
It's crucial to remember that many illnesses share similar symptoms. The NIH https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2022/01/it-flu-covid-19-allergies-or-cold points out that determining the cause can be challenging. The severity and abrupt onset of symptoms are key differentiators between the flu and a cold.
While this information helps distinguish between flu and cold, it's not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you are concerned about your symptoms, consult a healthcare provider for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
