Compare Cold Symptoms and Flu Symptoms
Compare Cold Symptoms and Flu Symptoms
Most people find it difficult to tell the difference between flu symptoms and cold symptoms. The following table may be able to help you to distinguish between the two so you can identify the correct treatment.
You can use the table below to compare and understand the differences between cold symptoms and flu symptoms.
Still have conscerns?
Check out the guides below about colds and flus.
Telling the difference & knowing when to take action? Whats the difference between a cold and flu and how to know when to take action.
How to treat a common cold or flu.
Advice and tips on treatments and remedies for a common cold or flu
How to stop catching a cold or flu.
Prevent yourself from catching a cold or spreading the infection.
| Symptom | Cold | Flu |
| Fever | Rare | Present - up to 80% of all flu cases. A temperature of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher for 3 to 4 days is associated with the flu. |
| Coughing | Present - mucous producing | Present -dry cough/non mucous producing |
| Fever | Rare | Present - up to 80% of all flu cases. A temperature of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher for 3 to 4 days is associated with the flu. |
| Aches&Pains | Slight | Severe |
| Nasal Congestion | Commonly present | Rare |
| Chills | Rare | Fairly common - 60% of flu cases include chills. Chills and shivering are a normal reaction to a cold environment, but unexplained chills can also be a sign of the flu. |
| Tiredness | Mild | Moderate to severe |
| Sneezing | Present | Rare |
| Sudden Symptoms | Cold symptoms tend to develop over a few days | The flu has a rapid onset within 3-6 hours. The flu hits hard and includes sudden symptoms like high fever, aches and pains. |
| Headache | Uncommon | Very common - present in 80% of flu cases. |
| Sore Throat | Present | Rare |
| Chest Discomfort | mild to moderate | Severe |
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