Oneida Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing on How to Tell the Difference Between the Flu and Cold

We’re approaching the peak of flu season, and especially in seniors, time is of the essence in diagnosing the flu. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that up to 70 percent of flu-related hospitalizations involve people over the age of 65, and between 70 and 85 percent of flu deaths each year come from that age group.

Many times, however, flu symptoms will mask themselves as the common cold. Here are eight signs and symptoms where you can differentiate between the cold and flu.

1. Symptom Onset

A cold will come on gradually, while the flu is abrupt and generally hits you like a proverbial ton of bricks. You may go to bed feeling fine and wake up with severe flu symptoms. 

2. Fever

A fever is rarely associated with the common cold, while it is a telltale occurrence of the flu. 

3. Aches

Some slight aches may accompany a cold, but they are more commonly associated with the flu.

4. Chills

Like a fever, chills are usually not a part of the symptoms of a cold. They go hand-in-hand with a fever, so if you have chills, it is probably the flu.

5. Fatigue or Weakness

You can get run-down by the common cold, but the flu will likely leave you not even wanting to get out of bed.

6. Sneezing, Stuffy Nose, Sore Throat

These are all the usual signs of a cold, but they only sometimes occur with the flu.

7. Cough, Chest Discomfort

A cough can be a persistent and irritable symptom of a cold, but a cough and chest discomfort are usually worse with the flu.

8. Headache

A headache is rare with a cold, but it is very common with the flu.

If you suspect that any of these signs could be the case, you should head to the doctor’s office to be evaluated, as specific medication designed to combat the flu may be necessary.

To learn more about Oneida Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing and all of the services they offer, visit https://centershealthcare.com/oneida_center/.