At first glance, a cold and the flu look pretty similar. Stuffy nose, sore throat, misery. But the difference is important because while colds are pretty mild the flu can be deadly.
The two share fewer symptoms than you might think. You'll get a stuffy nose, a cough and a sore throat with both. But if you're getting chills, muscle aches, and extreme tiredness, you might have the flu.
The flu also hits suddenly, while you usually feel a cold gradually come on.
And if you have a fever higher than 100 that's another sign that you might have the flu.
The flu will usually last about one to two weeks, and you can even feel weak and tired for weeks longer.
The best way to avoid the cold or the flu is to wash your hands and to stay away from anyone who may be sick. Regular exercise may help prevent the common cold as well, or at least shorten how long you may have it.
Of course, the best way to fight the flu is to get a flu shot.