Difference Between the Flu and a Cold
Current as of: June 26, 2019
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review: Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & William H. Blahd Jr. MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Difference Between the Flu and a ColdTopic OverviewThe flu and the common cold are both types of upper respiratory infections (URIs) . Both are caused by viruses. But the flu is not the same as the common cold. Flu symptomsFlu symptoms are usually much worse than a cold. The flu usually comes on suddenly and lasts longer. Symptoms may include:
The symptoms usually are the worst for the first 3 or 4 days. In most healthy people, the flu will go away in 5 to 7 days. But it can take 1 to 2 weeks to get completely better. The flu usually occurs during the late fall and winter. Cold symptomsCold symptoms usually come on over the course of a couple of days. Symptoms may include:
Colds usually last 1 to 2 weeks. As the cold gets worse, your nose may get stuffy with thicker mucus . You can catch a cold at any time of year, but they are more common in late winter and early spring. Related InformationCreditsCurrent as of: June 26, 2019
Author: Healthwise Staff
Current as of: June 26, 2019 Author: Healthwise Staff Medical Review: Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & William H. Blahd Jr. MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine |
Search the
Healthwise Knowledgebase Topic ContentsThis information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org. © 1995-2020 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. |