Cold and flu symptoms

Cold and flu symptoms can often feel similar, but they are caused by different viruses and tend to have some distinct characteristics. Here’s a breakdown of the symptoms for each:

Cold Symptoms

The common cold is usually caused by a viral infection, such as the rhinovirus. It typically results in milder symptoms compared to the flu.

Common Cold Symptoms:

1. Runny or stuffy nose – Nasal congestion is one of the most common symptoms.

2. Sore throat – A scratchy or mildly painful throat, usually mild in severity.

3. Cough – A mild, persistent cough, often dry.

4. Sneezing – Frequent sneezing can occur.

5. Mild headache – Typically not as severe as flu headaches.

6. Low-grade fever – If present, it’s usually low (below 101°F or 38°C) and doesn’t last long.

7. Mild body aches – Muscle aches may occur but are usually less intense than in the flu.

8. Fatigue – You may feel tired or run down, but not as intensely as with the flu.

9. Watery eyes – Sometimes associated with cold symptoms.

10. Post-nasal drip – This can lead to coughing or a sore throat.

Duration:

• Cold symptoms typically last 7 to 10 days, with some lingering symptoms (like a cough) lasting up to 2 weeks.

Flu Symptoms

The flu (influenza) is caused by the influenza virus and tends to have more severe symptoms than the common cold.

Flu Symptoms:

1. High fever – A sudden fever, often above 101°F (38.3°C), is common.

2. Severe body aches – Intense muscle and joint pain.

3. Chills – You may experience shaking chills, often accompanying the fever.

4. Fatigue – Profound tiredness or weakness, which can last for a couple of weeks.

5. Cough – A dry cough, often severe and persistent.

6. Sore throat – A more severe sore throat than with a cold.

7. Headache – A sudden, intense headache is common with the flu.

8. Runny or stuffy nose – Similar to a cold but often less severe than with a cold.

9. Chest discomfort – Can include pain or tightness in the chest.

10. Loss of appetite – Often accompanied by nausea and vomiting (especially in children).

Duration:

• Flu symptoms typically last 5 to 7 days, with the most intense symptoms (fever, body aches) peaking within the first 2-3 days.

• The fatigue can last up to 2 weeks.

Key Differences Between Cold and Flu:

Treatment for Cold and Flu Symptoms:

• Rest: Adequate rest helps your immune system fight off the virus.

• Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, especially if you have a fever.

• Over-the-counter (OTC) medications:

  • Pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) can help reduce fever and alleviate aches and pains.

  • Decongestants (e.g., pseudoephedrine) or nasal sprays can help relieve congestion.

  • Cough syrup or lozenges for a sore throat.

• Warm saltwater gargles for sore throat relief.

• Steam inhalation or using a humidifier to alleviate nasal congestion.

For flu, particularly if you’re at risk of complications (e.g., young children, elderly, pregnant women, or individuals with chronic health conditions), antiviral medication (e.g., oseltamivir/Tamiflu) may be prescribed by a doctor, ideally within the first 48 hours of symptoms starting.

When to See a Doctor:

While most colds and flu can be managed at home, there are situations when you should seek medical attention:

• Difficulty breathing or chest pain

• High fever that doesn’t respond to medication or lasts more than 3 days

• Severe headache or confusion

• Sudden dizziness or fainting

• Persistent vomiting or inability to keep fluids down

• Worsening symptoms after initial improvement

If you’re unsure whether you have a cold or the flu, or if you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, a telemedicine consultation can be a good option to assess your condition and receive treatment advice.