Colds and the flu cause many of the same symptoms. But colds are usually mild, while the flu tends to be more severe. A cold often starts with feeling tired, sneezing, coughing, and having a runny nose.

 

You may not have a fever, or you may run a low fever - just 1 or 2 degrees higher than usual. You may have muscle aches, a scratchy or sore throat, watery eyes, and a headache. The flu starts suddenly and hits hard. You will probably feel weak and tired and have a fever, dry cough, a runny nose, chills, muscle aches, a bad headache, eye pain, and a sore throat. It usually takes longer to get over the flu than a cold.

More than 100 different viruses can cause colds. There aren't as many viruses that cause the flu. That's why there is a shot for the flu and not for colds. To keep from getting the flu, there are certain people who should get a flu shot every October or November. The flu shot is also indicated for anyone else who would like to have protection against influenza.

There is no cure for a cold or the flu. Antibiotics don't work against viruses. Unless you have the flu and see your doctor within two days after your symptoms start, all you can do to feel better is treat your symptoms while your body fights off the virus. You can also use over-the-counter cold medicines to help you feel better. Do not give children cold medicine without checking with your doctor first. The current feeling is that they should not be given to children less than 4 years, and possibly even older children since there can be adverse reactions and the medications don’t tend to provide much benefit. Medications to fight fever are thought to be safe in children (e.g., Tylenol® or Children’s Motrin®). Adults who take prescription medicine also should check with their doctor before taking over-the-counter cold medicine.

Most people do not need to see a doctor when they have a cold or the flu. But if you have any of the emergency symptoms in the list below, call your doctor: