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How to tell if you have a cold or flu?
They are very similar and indeed many people always say they have a flu where as they could just have a bad cold but how can you tell if you have a cold or a flu? despite this they are two uniquely different conditions. Unfortunately there is no 100% certain way of telling by checking symptoms alone especially since you can have a particularly bad cold or mild flu that seems like the other.
The main differences are that a cold's symptoms develop more slowly than those of a flu. Also with a flu there tends to be chills and sweats.
Both colds and flu's are caused by viruses. The main difference is that there are many more cold viruses that mutate quicker, where as there are less flu viruses that tend not to change so quickly. For this reason it is scientifically possible and commercially viable to produce flu shots but not for the common cold.
The reality is that both colds and flu's can cause complications and could lead to more serious infections or even death if no action is take. so it is important to take action and make sure you put yourself onto the road to recovery rather than allowing the cold to run you down further.
With either colds of flu where there is a high temperature of above 100 degrees Fahrenheit or 7.5 Celsius then it is advisable to have rest as the body needs this to fight the virus. There is no need to call a doctor with most flu's or colds, instead follow the advice on how to combat or treat a cold. However, if the patient has any of the following conditions or complications then its worth taking extra care or even contacting a doctor.
- When the patient has respiratory problems or is elderly or weak then its worth monitoring them closely.
- If the symptoms of either a severe cold or flu continue and there is a prolonged fever (of two days or more) of above 102°F or 38.8 Celsius combined with fatigue and body aches then it would be advisable to contact a medical professional.
- Watch out too if symptoms last for over ten days and especially if they get worse rather than improve.
- Look out for any shortness of breath, chest pains or pressure to the chest as there could be more serious problems with the patients lungs or respiratory system.
- Often dizziness, fainting disorientation, confusion or delirium can occure especially with patients that have been suffering from a prolonged high fever.
- Also watch out for possible bacterial infections to the sinuses throat or chest and lungs by looking out for severe sinus pains or pains to the throat and wheezing or deep persistent chest coughing. If a bacterial infection has taken hold then it may be necessary to get a course of antibiotics. Finally if there is server or persistent vomiting for over two days do contact a doctor.
If you are suffering from a severe cold or flu with a high fever it is always advisable to have someone check up on you regularly. This way you will be safe in the knowledge that if you are suffering from delirium and you are unable to contact a doctor yourself then someone else will be able to do so for you.
Please be aware that the advice on this page is for adults with colds and flues. For information on what to look out for with children please check our children’s cold and flu symptoms.