Cold and flu have a lot in common. As both the conditions are caused by viruses and infect the airways, it is sometimes hard to tell them apart. Also, their symptoms overlap, leaving the person feeling extremely miserable.

However, it is important to know the difference between a common cold and flu in order to effectively treat it. A cold is a milder, less acute respiratory disorder than flu. While the symptoms of a cold can last for a few days, the symptoms of flu can prolong for a couple of weeks. Moreover, it can sometimes lead to very serious health problems such as pneumonia and even hospitalization.

Symptoms of a common cold
A common cold typically begins with a sore throat that generally gets better within two days. By the fourth or the fifth day, the nasal symptoms such as stuffy nose and congestion along with a mild cough may get better.

People suffering from cold get watery nasal secretions that gradually become thick and dark. This is an indication that the cold is getting better. Some people mistake dark mucus for bacterial infections, which may or may not be true.

Very few people experience a fever with a cold. However, in the case of children, having a slight fever along with other symptoms of cold is quite common.

Symptoms of flu
The symptoms of flu are more severe than cold and also appear quickly. The most common symptoms include fever, headache, sore throat, cough, congestion, and muscle aches. Swine flu is particularly associated with diarrhea and vomiting.

Usually, these symptoms start getting better in two to five days but a lot of people feel feeble for a week or more. Also, many times, flu causes pneumonia. This is especially true in the case of elderly people or those suffering from heart or lung diseases.

How do you know if it is a common cold or flu?
The best way to differentiate between a common cold and flu is by measuring body temperature. In cold, people rarely experience fever; however, in the case of flu, fever is one of the first symptoms.

The below information can help you determine if you have a cold or flu symptoms.

• Fever – Happens sometimes and is very mild in case of cold. Usually happens and lasts up to three to four days (higher than 100-102°F) in case of flu.
• Headache – Rare in case of cold and common in case of flu.
• Muscle aches – Very mild in case of cold and common or very severe in case of flu.
• Weakness and fatigue – Can happen sometimes in case of cold. It is common and can last up to three weeks in case of flu.
• Sneezing – It is common in case of cold but can happen sometimes in case of flu.
• Runny nose – A runny nose common in case of cold and can happen sometimes in case of flu.
• Sore throat – Common in cold and can happen sometimes in case of flu.
• Cough and chest discomfort – Very mild discomfort might happen in case of cold, with a hacking cough. This discomfort is common in flu.
• Other complications – Sinus congestion or mild ear infection in case of cold. Fatal pneumonia, ear infection, sinusitis or bronchitis can happen in case of flu.

Treatment
Decongestants and sometimes pain relievers can work for cold. For flu, over-the-counter (OTC) fever reducers, decongestants, and pain relievers might work. In some cases, the doctor may prescribe antiviral medicines.

All these aforementioned points can help you in distinguishing between the symptoms of cold and flu. But it is best to see a doctor if the symptoms persist for more than three days.