Is it a Cold or the Flu?

Your nose is stuffy, your throat is scratchy, and your head is pounding. Is it a cold or the seasonal flu? Symptoms can overlap, so unless your doctor runs a flu test—a painless check done with a nasal swab—as soon as you start to get sick, it's hard to know for sure. Here are some basic guidelines on how to tell the difference and what to do.

Common Cold

Causes

Several hundred different viruses

Prevention

Wash your hands often, stay away from people who are sick, and avoid touching your nose, eyes, and mouth. Practicing healthy habits—getting plenty of sleep, eating lots of fruits and vegetables, exercising, and managing stress—can all keep colds at bay.

Symptoms

• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sore throat
• Sneezing
• Slight fever (more common in children)
• Cough
• Occasional headache

What to do

Colds are contagious during the first three days, so stay home and rest up. Over-the-counter medications (antihistamines, decongestants, and anti-inflammatory medicines) can relieve congestion and other symptoms. Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.

See a doctor if

Your cold doesn't improve in about a week. You could have allergies, or a bacterial or sinus infection that requires antibiotics. A nagging cough could also be a sign of asthma.

Good to know

Colds usually should clear up in a few days. Symptoms are milder than those that come with the flu and typically don't lead to more serious health problems like pneumonia.

Seasonal Flu

Causes

Various influenza viruses

Prevention

Get an annual flu shot. Wash your hands often and thoroughly—at least 20 seconds with warm soap and water. Avoid touching your nose, eyes, and mouth, and try to avoid close contact with anyone who has the flu.

Symptoms

• Dry, hacking cough
• Muscle aches
• Headache
• Tiredness (may last 2 to 3 weeks)
• Congestion
• Chest discomfort
• Fever (usually 100 to 102 degrees, but occasionally higher)
• Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea (more common in children)

What to do

Flu symptoms are usually more severe than what happens with a common cold. Over-the-counter antihistamines, decongestants, and pain relievers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help you feel better. Drink plenty of fluids to keep from becoming dehydrated.

See a doctor if

You have shortness of breath or a fever that goes away and then returns. The flu can cause serious complications, especially in children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with heart and lung problems, so see your doctor right away if you're at high-risk.

Good to know

Still not sure what you've got? Look to the time of year. The flu season usually runs from fall to spring, peaking between late December and early March.