26 Mar Common Cold vs. Flu: How to Help Tell the Difference
The cold winter months are notorious for all kinds of viral and bacterial illnesses to spread, with Influenza (flu) and the common cold the two most prevalent and contagious respiratory illnesses. Although they may share many of the same symptoms, they are caused by different viruses. The flu is caused by influenza viruses only while the common cold is caused by a number of different viruses. Despite their similarities, knowing the difference between the two is important for the right diagnosis and treatment.
Causes of the Common Cold vs. Flu
The common cold is predominantly caused by rhinoviruses, while viruses such as parainfluenza and seasonal coronaviruses can also be responsible. However, these strains of coronaviruses are not the same as SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Rhinoviruses spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. They can also be contracted by touching an infected person (shaking hands, kissing) or contaminated surfaces and then touching the nose, mouth, or eyes.
The flu is caused by influenza viruses, types A, B, C, with Influenza A and B the most common strains that are responsible for seasonal flu outbreaks. Like colds, the flu spreads through respiratory droplets and surface contact, but it tends to be more severe and can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and worsening of chronic conditions like asthma, heart disease and diabetes.
Symptoms of the Common Cold vs. Flu
While the flu and the common cold can share the same symptoms there are differences in their severity and onset. A key feature of the common cold is that symptoms come on gradually and occur from the neck up, usually starting with a sore throat. Flu symptoms commonly come on suddenly with a fever or headache, usually the first sign of illness.
Symptoms of the common cold include:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Sore throat
- Cough (usually mild)
- Mild headache
- Low-grade fever (rare in adults, more common in children)
- Mild fatigue
Flu Symptoms are often more severe, which include:
- High fever (often above 100.4°F)
- Body chills
- Severe body aches and muscle pain
- Intense fatigue
- Dry and persistent cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Headache
- Shortness of breath (in severe cases)
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea (more common in children)
Understanding these differences can help individuals seek the right treatment and take preventive measures to avoid complications that are associated with influenza.
Treatment Plans
As colds can be caused by different viruses, there is no specific antiviral treatment available. Instead, treatment focuses on symptom relief, that includes:
- Getting plenty of rest and staying hydrated with lots of water
- Taking over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen
- Inhaling nasal decongestants and antihistamines
- Drinking warm fluids such as tea and taking throat lozenges to soothe a sore throat
As the flu is more serious, there are a number of treatment options available, including antiviral medications such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and baloxavir marboxil (Xofluza), which can reduce the severity and duration of symptoms if taken within the first 48 hours. Supportive care is also important, such as:
- Adequate rest and fluid intake
- Fever reducers and pain relievers
- Cough suppressants and throat soothers
Duration and Recovery
A common cold can last between 7 to 10 days on average, with symptoms peaking around day 3 or 4 before gradually improving. Most people recover without medical intervention, though some may experience lingering congestion or cough for up to two weeks.
The flu can last longer and be more intense as symptoms can last for one to two weeks, with severe fatigue and body aches often lingering beyond that period. In some cases, complications can extend recovery time significantly and in serious cases require hospitalization.
When to Seek Urgent Medical Attention
It is advised that you see a medical practitioner as soon as symptoms begin before they worsen. While the common cold is rarely serious, the flu can lead to complications requiring hospital treatment. Both healthcare professionals and students of an online MSN FNP program advise that individuals seek immediate medical attention if you or someone you know is experiencing:
- Having difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Persistent chest pain or pressure
- Confusion or dizziness
- Severe dehydration, such as a dry mouth, infrequent urination or extreme thirst
- Symptoms that improve and then suddenly worsen
Children, older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic conditions such as asthma or heart disease are at a higher risk for flu complications.
Prevention Strategies
Preventing both the common cold and flu involves having good hygiene practices and taking proactive health measures. These include:
- Getting a flu shot – Consult your physician before getting vaccinated.
- Maintaining good hygiene: Avoiding close contact with sick individuals if possible
- Staying home if you are sick
- Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow
- Regularly cleaning and disinfecting all surfaces, especially in high-touch areas will help limit bacterial growth
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables and quality protein sources, exercising regularly and getting adequate sleep to support a strong immune system
Knowing the Difference is Important
Although the common cold and flu share some of the same symptoms, understanding the differences helps doctors make informed decisions about the best course of treatment. The flu is more severe, as it develops quickly and has a higher risk of complications.
The common cold is milder and takes less time to recover from. Everyone can do their part to help prevent getting sick and minimize the risk of spread by practicing good hygiene, getting vaccinated, and seeking medical care as soon as symptoms develop.
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Last Updated on March 26, 2025 by Marie Benz MD FAAD