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Although they are both infectious respiratory diseases, influenza (flu) and the common cold are brought on by distinct viruses. Only influenza viruses can cause the flu, although a variety of viruses, such as rhinoviruses, parainfluenza, and seasonal coronaviruses, can cause the common cold. SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, is not to be confused with seasonal coronaviruses. It might be challenging to distinguish between the flu and the common cold based just on symptoms because they are similar.
Usually, the flu is more severe than a common cold infection, and its symptoms usually start more suddenly and are more severe. Compared to those who have the flu, those who have colds are more likely to have a runny or nasal congestion. It can be challenging to distinguish between the flu and a cold just on the basis of symptoms because they have many characteristics. If someone has the flu, it can be determined by specific tests.
A sore throat is typically the first sign of a cold and goes away in a day or two. By the fourth and fifth days, there is a cough, congestion, runny nose, and nasal symptoms. Although a mild fever is rare in adults, it is possible. Children who have a cold are more likely to develop fever also.
During the first several days of cold symptoms, the nose becomes congested with watery discharges. These subsequently become darker and thicker. Dark mucus is natural and does not usually mean you have developed a bacterial infection, such as a sinus infection. The symptoms of cold could be caused by hundreds of different viruses.
The symptoms of a common cold usually manifest in phases. There are three common stages of a cold: early, active, and late.
Stage 1- (Days 1 to 3): A tickle in your throat may appear one to three days after contracting a cold virus. A painful or tickly throat is the initial symptom reported by almost half of all cold patients. During this early period, you can also encounter the following other common cold symptoms:
Stage 2- (Days 4 to 7): At this point, symptoms usually peak or get worse. Along with the signs of stage 1, you might also have:
Stage 3- (Days 8 to 10): In this phase, colds usually start to subside. This is where you might be free and clear. But some symptoms may not go away. A persistent cough may persist for up to two months in certain individuals following a respiratory infection. If your fever returns or your symptoms worsen, you should visit a doctor. You might have contracted pneumonia, sinusitis, or bronchitis, or another infection or consequence.
An influenza virus infection causes the flu, a common respiratory disease. Compared to colds, the flu is less often but more severe and can cause major problems when it does occur. Having a fever or a temperature of 100°F or above is one of the main signs of the flu. Not everyone who has the flu will, however, have a fever.
Common symptoms of the flu are:
| Symptoms | Cold | Flu |
| Fever | Sometimes, usually mild | Usually high(100-102 F, especially in young children); lasts 3 to 4 days |
| Headache | Occasionally | Common |
| General Aches, Pains | Slight | Usual; often severe |
| Fatigue, Weakness | Sometimes | Usual; can last 2 to 3 weeks |
| Extreme Exhaustion | Never | Usual; at the beginning of the illness |
| Stuffy 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; middle ear infection | Sinusitis, bronchitis, ear infection, pneumonia; can be life-threatening |
| Prevention | Wash hands often; avoid close contact with anyone with a cold | Wash hands often; avoid close contact with anyone who has flu symptoms; get the annual flu vaccine |
| Treatment | Decongestants; pain reliever/fever reducer medicines | Decongestants, pain relievers, or fever reducers, prescription antiviral drugs |
A physical examination is usually necessary to diagnose a common cold. If the doctors suspect that you are suffering from COVID-19, the flu, or another illness, you may need to undergo other tests. Your doctor might advise you on either a cotton swab test or chest X rays. A cotton swab rubbed into your nose to collect the test sample is called a nasal swab test. X-rays of the chest can help in ruling out other illnesses like pneumonia or bronchitis.
Regular washing of the hands is the most effective way to prevent getting a cold or the flu. To eliminate germs from the skin, wash your hands by massaging them with warm, soapy water for at least 20 seconds. You can receive a flu vaccination to prevent seasonal influenza in addition to hand washing to avoid flu or cold symptoms. Seasonal flu activity typically peaks from late December to early March. The body produces antibodies that guard against the flu within two weeks after receiving the vaccine. First-time recipients of the vaccination require two doses spaced one month apart.
If you or any of your family members are experiencing symptoms of cold or seasonal flu, get tested at Dr. B. Lal Lab for accurate results. Book your test now!
Q1: How can I tell if I have a cold or the flu?
A: The flu typically comes on suddenly with severe symptoms like fever, chills, and body aches. A cold develops gradually and usually involves milder symptoms like sneezing, a runny nose, and a sore throat.
Q2: How are colds and flu spread?
A: Both are transmitted through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. They can also spread by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face.
Q3: Can you have a fever with a cold?
A: While fever is uncommon in adults with a cold, it can occasionally occur, especially in children. However, fever is a hallmark symptom of the flu.
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