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What is the Difference Between a Cold and the Flu?

While the common cold and the flu are often confused, and sometimes even used synonymously, the two are very different.

The first difference comes in the onset of symptoms. Symptoms of the common cold will develop over a period of days. Often, the first symptom is a scratchy or dry throat, followed by a runny nose and sneezing. A mild fever may develop and coughing typically begins as congestion builds.

With the flu, symptoms begin more rapidly, usually starting with a fever and headache. The whole body may also feel achy, and is often combined with a feeling of fatigue. Coughing is usually dry, and not usually a by-product of congestion. In fact, congestion is typically a cold symptom and is less common with the flu.

Another difference is in how the cold and flu affect your body. The common cold is generally an infection of the respiratory system, and the upper body is the part that is most affected by it. On the other hand, the flu is a whole-body illness.

In most cases, whether it is a cold or a flu, the body will be able to fight off the infection in a matter of days, and a trip to the doctor is not required. However, for older adults and those with already compromised immune systems, a medical visit is highly recommended. The flu can lead to more dangerous problems, such as pneumonia. So, it should not be treated lightly!

But, as we’ve seen recently, the flu can become a danger in and of itself. Different strains, such as the avian flu and swine flu, can be deadlier than their more common cousins. Young healthy adults whose bodies would normally be able to fight off infuenza relatively easily have died from these more dangerous strains. Thus, the flu is not something that should be brushed off. If you have symptoms of the flu, it is advisable to contact a medical professional, especially if you have visited areas known to be affected by the dangerous flu strains or if you have had contact with someone who has. Don’t take risks—and don’t put others at risk either!

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