Cold vs Flu: What’s the Difference?

The common cold and the flu (influenza) are both respiratory illnesses that are common during this time of year, but they are caused by different viruses. They have distinct symptoms, severities and treatment approaches. Understanding these differences can help you manage your differences effectively and seek appropriate care when necessary.

What is a cold?

A cold or common cold is a mild viral infection of the upper respiratory tract. It primarily affects the nose and throat but can also impact your sinuses and windpipe too. Adults get an average of 2 to 4 colds per year and is most common during  the autumn and winter months. A cold is usually harmless and eventually goes away its own.

What is the flu?

The flu, or influenza, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It primarily affects the nose, throat, and lungs and can range in severity from mild to life-threatening if you have any underlying health conditions. It is also most common during the autumn and winter months, often referred to as the ‘flu season’.

What are the symptoms of a cold?

Common symptoms of a cold include:

• Runny or stuffy nose – Nasal congestion is one of the most common symptoms.
• Sore throat – A scratchy or irritated throat can be felt in the early stages of a cold.
• Cough – A mild cough that may become more pronounced as the cold progresses.
• Sneezing – Frequent sneezing is a the most common symptom and trait of a cold.
• Mild headache – A slight headache may occur but is typically less intense than with the flu.
• Fatigue – Mild tiredness and a feeling of low energy are common, though not as severe as with the flu.
• Watery eyes – In some cases, colds can lead to slight eye irritation or watering.
• Low-grade fever – Although rare, some people may develop a slight fever.
• Body aches – Mild muscle aches may occur but are typically not as severe as those seen with the flu.

What are the symptoms of the flu?

Common symptoms of a cold include:

• High fever – Often above 38°C, which can come on suddenly and is one of the most common symptoms.
• Chills – Accompanying the fever, chills are common and lead to discomfort.
• Cough – A dry, persistent cough is typical and can be severe.
• Sore throat – While a sore throat can occur with both the flu and a cold, it tends to be more painful and persistent with the flu.
• Body aches and muscle pain – Widespread aches, particularly in the back, arms, and legs, are common. These can be severe and exhausting.
• Fatigue – Extreme tiredness or weakness can be overwhelming and last for weeks, even after other symptoms subside.
• Headaches – Often severe, these headaches are more intense than those associated with a common cold.
• Runny or stuffy nose – Nasal congestion can occur, but it’s usually more severe in the cold than the flu.
• Sweating – After or during a fever, the body may sweat profusely as it attempts to cool down.

Treatments for a cold and the flu

1. Rest and hydration – Both conditions benefit from adequate rest and staying hydrated to support recovery.
2. Symptom-relief medications – Over the counter (OTC) medications, such as ibuprofen, help reduce fever, headaches, and body aches in both colds and the flu. Decongestants, cough suppressants, and antihistamines may relieve specific symptoms like congestion, sneezing, or coughing in both conditions.
3. Home remedies – Warm fluids, like tea or chicken soup, and humidifiers can soothe the throat and relieve nasal congestion for both colds and flu.

Boosting your immune system is also vital in preventing and treating cold and flu symptoms. To learn more, read our blog post here.

Difference in treatments

1. Antiviral Medications (flu-specific) – Antiviral drugs can be prescribed to help with the flu but are not effective against the common cold. These medications can reduce the severity and duration of flu symptoms if taken early.
2. Severity of Management – The flu often requires more aggressive management due to its higher risk of complications, especially in high-risk groups (e.g., older adults, pregnant individuals, or those with chronic conditions). Severe flu cases may require doctor visits or hospitalisation, whereas the cold is almost always managed at home.
3. Duration and Intensity – Cold symptoms are usually milder and self-limiting, whereas the flu often involves high fever and extreme fatigue that require a longer recovery period.

Cold and flu treatments at Be Well

At Be Well, we offer effective cold and flu treatments to help alleviate your symptoms. Begin with a quick and simple consultation to get started.