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Question: How can I tell if I have the flu or a common cold?
Brief Answer:
Common cold mostly milder symptoms
Detailed Answer:
Dear patient,
common cold mostly starts slow with runny nose, milder symptoms like fever (not necessarily too high), coughing, but generally no strong "ill feeling", although that is very subjective.
Real (influenza) flue starts typically very quick, high fever, no runny nose, strong muscle pain and strong weakness. It may also take longer to heal than common cold.
However, mostly in both cases a otherwise healthy person will fully recover within 1-2 weeks.
Best regards
Common cold mostly milder symptoms
Detailed Answer:
Dear patient,
common cold mostly starts slow with runny nose, milder symptoms like fever (not necessarily too high), coughing, but generally no strong "ill feeling", although that is very subjective.
Real (influenza) flue starts typically very quick, high fever, no runny nose, strong muscle pain and strong weakness. It may also take longer to heal than common cold.
However, mostly in both cases a otherwise healthy person will fully recover within 1-2 weeks.
Best regards
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj
Answered by
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