Colds and the Flu | Symptoms

How can I tell if I have a cold or the flu?

Although the common cold and the flu share many similar symptoms, they are 2 different conditions.

 The symptoms of a cold develop slowly and can include:

• Fever up to 102°F
• Runny or stuffy nose (often with green- or yellow-colored discharge)
• Sore throat
• Cough
• Sneezing
• Fatigue
• Muscle aches
• Headache
• Watery eyes

Cold symptoms generally are milder than flu symptoms.

 Flu symptoms usually appear suddenly and can include:

• Fever over 102°F
• Stuffy nose
• Nausea
• Chills and sweats
• Fatigue
• Muscle aches, especially in your back, arms and legs
• Cough
• Headache
• Loss of appetite

Should I call my doctor?

In most cases, you don't need to see your doctor when you have a cold or the flu. However, if you have any of the symptoms in the box below, call your doctor.

Call your doctor if you have these cold and flu symptoms:

In children:

• High fever (above 103°F), or a fever that lasts for more than 3 days
• Symptoms that last for more than 10 days
• Trouble breathing, fast breathing or wheezing
• Bluish skin color
• Earache or drainage from the ear
• Changes in mental state (such as not waking up, irritability or seizures)
• Flu-like symptoms that improve, but return with a fever and a worse cough
• Worsening of a chronic medical condition (such as diabetes or heart disease)
• Vomiting or abdominal pain

In adults:

• A high, prolonged fever (above 102°F) with fatigue and body aches
• Symptoms that last for more than 10 days or get worse instead of better
• Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
• Pain or pressure in the chest
• Fainting or feeling like you are about to faint
• Confusion or disorientation
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Severe sinus pain in your face or forehead
• Very swollen glands in the neck or jaw