Differences Between a Cold and the Flu
warningFever Alert
If you have a fever of 101 degrees Fahrenheit or higher for more than 24 hours, seek treatment.
Cold
Fever: Low or none
Headache: Sometimes
Nose: Stuffy/runny
Sneezing: Very common
Cough: Mild, hacking
Aches/Pains: Slight
Fatigue: Mild
Throat: Sore
Energy: Normal, may feel sluggish
Duration: Symptoms can last 7-10 days
Flu
Fever: High
Headache: Very common
Nose: Stuffy, runny
Sneezing: Sometimes
Cough: Severe
Aches/Pains: Severe
Fatigue: Can last for several weeks
Throat: Sometimes sore
Energy: Extreme exhaustion
Duration: Symptoms can last several weeks
Prevention
- Wash your hands often and keep your hands away from your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Be sure to get your annual flu vaccination.
Treatment Options
- Over-the-counter cold medications, such as decongestants and cough medicine
- Over-the-counter antihistamines
- Rest
- Increase fluid intake
- Pain relievers for headache or fever
- Warm, salt water for sore throat
- Petroleum jelly for raw, chapped skin around the nose and lips
- Warm steam for congestion