During the cold and flu season, it’s common to feel under the weather. Many people experience symptoms such as coughing, sore throat, and congestion.

However, is it the flu or just a cold? This article will help you understand the differences between the two illnesses, and how to treat them.

What is the Flu?

The flu is a highly contagious, viral respiratory illness that is caused by the influenza virus. It is spread through respiratory droplets, such as when a person coughs or sneezes.

The flu typically has a sudden onset, with symptoms appearing one to four days after exposure.

What are the Symptoms of the Flu?

The symptoms of the flu are similar to a cold, but more severe. They include:.

Fever over 100.4 F (38 C)
Aching muscles
Chills and sweats
Fatigue and weakness
Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea (more common in children)
Sore throat
Congestion
Headache
Cough

What is a Cold?

A cold is also a viral respiratory illness that can be caused by different viruses, including rhinoviruses. It is spread through direct contact with infected secretions or contaminated surfaces.

A cold usually develops gradually, with symptoms appearing one to three days after exposure.

What are the Symptoms of a Cold?

The symptoms of a cold are milder than the flu and usually last for a shorter time. They include:.

Sore throat
Congestion
Cough
Sneezing
Runny or stuffy nose
Low-grade fever (less than 100.4 F or 38 C)

How Can You Tell the Difference Between the Flu and a Cold?

It can be difficult to tell the difference between the flu and a cold based on symptoms alone. However, there are some key differences:.

The flu usually has a sudden onset, while a cold develops gradually.
The flu is more likely to cause fever, body aches, chills, sweating, and fatigue than a cold.
A cold is more likely to cause a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, and congestion than the flu.
The flu is more likely to cause complications, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinus infections, than a cold.
The flu is more likely to cause severe illness and hospitalization, especially in high-risk groups such as young children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with underlying health conditions.

How Do You Treat the Flu and a Cold?

There is no cure for the flu or a cold, and antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections. However, there are several things you can do to manage your symptoms:.

Rest and stay hydrated.
Take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, for fever and body aches.
Use cough and cold medicines with caution, as they can have side effects and can be harmful to certain groups of people, such as children, pregnant women, and people with certain medical conditions.
Use saline nasal sprays or drops to moisturize and clear nasal passages.
Gargle with salt water to soothe a sore throat.
Use a humidifier or vaporizer to moisten the air and ease congestion.
Stay home and avoid contact with others to prevent spreading the infection.

When Should You See a Doctor?

You should see a doctor if you experience:.

High fever (over 102 F or 39 C) that lasts more than a few days.
Chest pain or difficulty breathing.
Worsening or persistent symptoms.
Signs of dehydration, such as dizziness, dry mouth, or decreased urination.
Severe or unusual symptoms, such as confusion, seizures, or severe headache.

If you suspect you have the flu, your doctor may prescribe antiviral medication, such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu), to reduce the severity and duration of your illness.

Conclusion

The flu and a cold are both viral respiratory illnesses that share some common symptoms, but there are key differences in their onset, severity, and complications.

While there is no cure for either illness, you can manage your symptoms with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications. If your symptoms worsen or persist, or if you have high-risk factors, contact your doctor for medical advice.