Colds and flu share many of the same symptoms, including cough, sore throat, and fatigue.
Even the stages of flu recovery are similar to the stages of recovery for thecommon cold.
Typically,influenza (flu)is worse with symptoms developing more intensely and abruptly, but not always.
Illustration by Jessica Olah for Verywell Health
Illustration by Jessica Olah for Verywell Health
Cold vs.
Beyond that, the viruses that cause colds and flu differ entirely.
This includes the way that they cause illness.
Initial symptoms include a runny nose and sore throat.
As the infection progresses, coughing, sneezing, and stuffiness commonly develop.
Influenza
The flu is triggered by the influenza virus.
While inflammation contributes to the symptoms, the virus causes actual damage to respiratory tissues as it replicates.
This accounts for the severity of flu symptoms and the higher risk of flu complications.
Diagnosis
There are some differences in how colds and flu are diagnosed.
The common cold is diagnosed based on your symptoms and a physical exam.
There are no tests to diagnose colds as there are so many causes.
If testing is done, it is usually to rule out other possible causes, such asCOVID-19.
Flu can often be diagnosed by symptoms alone.
Even so, it may be well worth seeing a healthcare provider to get arapid flu test.
This is an in-office test that can detect influenza with a swab of your throat or nasal passage.
Results are returned within 15 minutes.
Treatment
The only true “cure” for colds and flu is time.
There are no drugs that can stop the infection or fully eradicate cold or flu viruses.
Theimmune systemwill almost invariably bring the infection under control.
Your part in treatment is managing symptoms until you feel better.
There is no vaccine, treatment, or medication available to prevent or cure cold viruses.
With uncomplicated flu, all you usually need to recover is rest and plenty of fluids.
OTC pain relievers, decongestants, expectorants, and cough suppressants may be used if needed.
Annual vaccination is recommended for all people over the age of 6 months.
Summary
Cold and flu are resulting from different respiratory viruses.
The common cold tends to start gradually with milder symptoms.
Influenza (flu) usually starts abruptly with symptoms like fever and chills that are uncommon with colds.
There are no tests, vaccines, or antiviral treatments specific to the common cold.
Talk to your healthcare provider if your symptoms persist or you need guidance on treatment.
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