Cold or Flu: How to Tell the Difference

🩺 Cold or Flu: How to Tell the Difference

When you start feeling tired, sneezy, and congested, it's not always easy to know whether you have a cold or the flu. Both can cause similar symptoms — sore throat, runny nose, body aches — but they differ in how quickly they appear, how severe they are, and how long they last.

Knowing the difference can help you decide when to rest at home and when to speak with a doctor for further advice.

🔹 What's the Difference Between a Cold and the Flu?

<table style="width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; margin: 20px 0;"> <thead> <tr style="background-color: #f8f9fa;"> <th style="border: 1px solid #dee2e6; padding: 12px; text-align: left;">Feature</th> <th style="border: 1px solid #dee2e6; padding: 12px; text-align: left;">Common Cold</th> <th style="border: 1px solid #dee2e6; padding: 12px; text-align: left;">Influenza (Flu)</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr> <td style="border: 1px solid #dee2e6; padding: 12px;">**Onset**</td> <td style="border: 1px solid #dee2e6; padding: 12px;">Gradual</td> <td style="border: 1px solid #dee2e6; padding: 12px;">Sudden</td> </tr> <tr style="background-color: #f8f9fa;"> <td style="border: 1px solid #dee2e6; padding: 12px;">**Fever**</td> <td style="border: 1px solid #dee2e6; padding: 12px;">Rare or mild</td> <td style="border: 1px solid #dee2e6; padding: 12px;">Common, often high</td> </tr> <tr> <td style="border: 1px solid #dee2e6; padding: 12px;">**Body aches**</td> <td style="border: 1px solid #dee2e6; padding: 12px;">Mild</td> <td style="border: 1px solid #dee2e6; padding: 12px;">Moderate to severe</td> </tr> <tr style="background-color: #f8f9fa;"> <td style="border: 1px solid #dee2e6; padding: 12px;">**Fatigue**</td> <td style="border: 1px solid #dee2e6; padding: 12px;">Mild</td> <td style="border: 1px solid #dee2e6; padding: 12px;">Can be intense</td> </tr> <tr> <td style="border: 1px solid #dee2e6; padding: 12px;">**Headache**</td> <td style="border: 1px solid #dee2e6; padding: 12px;">Rare</td> <td style="border: 1px solid #dee2e6; padding: 12px;">Common</td> </tr> <tr style="background-color: #f8f9fa;"> <td style="border: 1px solid #dee2e6; padding: 12px;">**Sore throat & sneezing**</td> <td style="border: 1px solid #dee2e6; padding: 12px;">Frequent</td> <td style="border: 1px solid #dee2e6; padding: 12px;">Less frequent</td> </tr> <tr> <td style="border: 1px solid #dee2e6; padding: 12px;">**Duration**</td> <td style="border: 1px solid #dee2e6; padding: 12px;">3–7 days</td> <td style="border: 1px solid #dee2e6; padding: 12px;">7–14 days</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> The flu tends to come on suddenly, with fever, chills, and fatigue, while a cold usually develops slowly and remains milder.

🔹 When to Speak with a Doctor

Most colds and mild flu cases resolve on their own, but you should consider medical advice if you experience:

• Persistent high fever (over 38.5°C / 101.3°F)
• Shortness of breath or chest pain
• Symptoms lasting longer than 7–10 days
• Severe fatigue or confusion
• Vomiting or dehydration

💬 If you're travelling, can't access your regular clinic, or simply want professional reassurance, an online medical consultation is a convenient option. At Vesiacare, Spanish-licensed doctors can assess your symptoms and guide you on how to manage them safely.

🔹 How to Care for Yourself at Home

While you recover, these steps can help you feel better faster:

• Rest and stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids such as water or herbal teas
• Use a humidifier or take warm showers to relieve congestion
• Eat light, nutritious meals to support your immune system
• Avoid alcohol and smoking, which can irritate the respiratory tract
• Wash your hands regularly to prevent spreading the infection

If you need to travel, check your temperature and make sure your symptoms are improving before flying.

🔹 How Long Does It Last?

• A cold usually lasts 3 to 7 days, though a lingering cough or mild fatigue may persist for a bit longer
• The flu can last 7 to 14 days, with tiredness sometimes continuing for several weeks

If you're unsure which one you have, or if your symptoms are worsening, speaking to a doctor can help clarify your condition and next steps.

🔹 Conclusion

Both colds and flu are common, especially during travel or seasonal changes. Most cases improve with rest, hydration, and simple home care — but if you have a high fever or severe symptoms, medical advice is recommended.

👉 With Vesiacare, you can speak to a Spanish doctor online within minutes, wherever you are, and get professional guidance for peace of mind.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

How can I tell if it's the flu or just a cold?

If your symptoms appear suddenly with fever and body aches, it's more likely the flu. If they develop slowly with mild sore throat and congestion, it's probably a cold.

Can I fly with a cold or flu?

Mild cold symptoms usually don't prevent you from flying, but avoid travelling if you have a fever or feel very weak.

Can an online doctor help me?

Yes. An online consultation lets a doctor assess your symptoms and provide personalised advice, especially if you're abroad or can't see your regular GP.