Do you feel under the weather and wonder if you're sick with the flu or a cold?
It's often hard to tell the difference because the symptoms of both are similar. But there is one clue about flu that can help you know. When you have it, you feel the symptoms sooner than you would with a cold, and they come on with much greater intensity.
What Are the Symptoms of the Flu?
You may feel very weak and tired for up to 2 or 3 weeks. You'll have muscle aches and periods of chills and sweats as fever comes and goes. You may also have a stuffy or runny nose, headache, and sore throat.
Can I Compare Flu and Cold Symptoms?
This chart can help you see the differences and similarities. Then, if you get flu symptoms, call your doctor and ask about an antiviral drug.
Symptoms | Cold | |
| Fever | Rare | Characteristic, high (100-102 degrees F); lasts 3 to 4 days |
| Headache | Rare | Prominent |
| General Aches, Pains | Slight | Usual; often severe |
| Fatigue, Weakness | Quite mild | Can last up to 2 to 3 weeks |
| Extreme Exhaustion | Rare | Early and prominent |
| Stuffy, Runny Nose | Common | Sometimes |
| Sneezing | Usual | Sometimes |
| Sore Throat | Common | Sometimes |
| Chest Discomfort, Cough | Mild to moderate; hacking cough | Common; can become severe |
Complications | Sinus congestion or earache | Bronchitis, pneumonia; can be life-threatening |
Prevention | Good hygiene | Good hygiene and an annual flu vaccine |
Treatment | Only temporary relief of symptoms | Antiviral drugs oseltamivir (Tamiflu), zanamivir (Relenza), or peramivir (Rapivab) within 24-48 hours of onset |
