Is it a Cold or the Flu?

You’re sick and you figure it’s probably just a cold, so you don’t need to go see your doctor. Right? Well, the flu and the common cold are both caused by viruses, and they have similar symptoms. The flu is usually more severe and can cause death in certain vulnerable populations, including the immunocompromised, elderly and young children.

Common Cold vs. Flu – What’s the Difference?

While influenza (flu) and the common cold are both viral infections, they are caused by different viruses. They have symptoms that can overlap, but the flu includes sudden onset symptoms that are more severe.

Typical flu-like symptoms include the following:

• Fever/chills
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Weakness
• Vomiting/Diarrhea *(more common in children)

Common Cold Symptoms

Unlike the flu, there is usually no fever associated with a cold. Here are cold-like symptoms:

• Cough (can occur with/without phlegm)
• Sore throat
• Runny/stuffy nose/congestion
• Post-nasal drip
• Watery/itchy/red eyes
• Headache
• Swollen lymph nodes

Treatment for a Cold vs Flu

There is no test for the common cold while the flu can be diagnosed by a simple nasal swab. If detected via nasal swab, within 48 hours of symptom onset, these treatment options can make the flu less miserable:

• Supportive treatment with fluids
• Anti-viral medication (ex: Tamiflu)
• Rest
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Cough suppressants
• Etc.

When should I go to the emergency room for the flu?

You should head to the emergency room if you experience any of the following while you have the flu:

• Difficulty breathing
• Chest/abdominal pain
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Severe vomiting
• High fevers
• Worsening of flu symptoms

Children should be brought to the emergency room if you notice any of these symptoms:

• Irritability
• Inability to eat/drink fluids
• Having no tears when crying
• Less wet diapers (signs of dehydration)

While the common cold has similar symptoms as the flu, the symptoms of a cold are more mild and have a more gradual onset. Both influenza and the common cold will eventually resolve on their own in healthy people. 

Contact Your Primary Care Physician

If you have flu-like symptoms, you should contact your primary care physician. If your symptoms are more severe (such as the ones listed above), it may be time to take a trip to the emergency room or urgent care located nearest to you. 

Find a WakeMed Primary Care Office Near You

WakeMed Physician Practices features board-certified primary care, internal medicine and family medicine physicians conveniently located throughout the Triangle. Find a primary care office near you, and request an appointment today.