Image credit: Stephen Kelly, 2018
Sometimes, especially during “cold and flu” season, we get a little nervous about what we have. Why am I so achy? Is this headache normal? Why do I feel so blah?
“Cold and flu are caused by different viruses, and, in general, the symptoms of flu are worse. Also, there are less likely to be serious complications from cold, such as pneumonia and bacterial infections.
The main difference between cold and flu symptoms is that flu more commonly includes fever; the fever can be 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher and last for 3-5 days.
The extreme fatigue associated with flu can persist for weeks. Cold symptoms are generally milder and last about 1 week.
Also, runny nose or nasal congestion is more common with cold than flu.
Vomiting is another key difference; vomiting is not normally associated with the common cold but can be present in flu.
Although the differences above are generally true, without conducting special tests, it is impossible to know for sure whether it is flu or cold. For instance, it is possible to have flu without fever.”
Read the full article by clicking on the source link below.
source: Medical News Today, “What is the difference between cold and flu?” by Joseph Nordqvist and medically reviewed by Dr. Daniel Murrell, M.D. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/5161.php#differences