The flu and a cold are both respiratory illnesses caused by viruses, but they are caused by different types of viruses. The flu is caused by the influenza virus while the common cold can be caused by various viruses. The symptoms and severity of the two illnesses also differ.
The symptoms of the flu include fever, body aches, headache, fatigue, cough, sore throat, and sometimes vomiting and diarrhea. These symptoms typically come on suddenly and can be severe.
The symptoms of a cold include a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, mild body aches, and mild fatigue. These symptoms usually develop gradually and are not as severe as those of the flu.
The flu typically lasts for about 1-2 weeks, with symptoms improving after the first few days. However, some people may experience fatigue and weakness for several weeks after the other symptoms have resolved.
The best way to determine if you have the flu or a cold is to visit a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis. They may perform a rapid flu test or take a swab to confirm the presence of the influenza virus. Generally, the severity and onset of symptoms can also help differentiate between the two illnesses.