Cold or flu? Recognize and treat the differences correctly

The nose is running, the head aches, and you feel tired – but is it just a common cold or actually the flu? This question is asked by millions of people each year, especially during the cold season. Correctly distinguishing between them is important, because while a cold is usually harmless, real flu can lead to serious complications.

The most important differences at a glance

Cold (common cold)

A cold usually develops gradually over several days. Symptoms often start with a slight scratchy throat or a stuffy nose. Typical signs include:

• Runny nose with clear to yellowish secretion
• Mild to moderate headache
• Sore throat and cough
• Mild fever (up to 38°C) or no fever at all
• General fatigue, but not severe exhaustion
• Limb pain is rather rare and mild

Symptoms usually peak after 2-3 days and then gradually subside. A cold typically lasts 7-10 days.

Flu (Influenza)

Unlike a cold, a genuine flu usually appears very suddenly. From one moment to the next, you feel really sick. The symptoms are significantly more intense:

• High fever (over 38.5°C), often with chills
• Severe headache and body aches
• Dry, painful cough
• Extreme exhaustion and feeling of weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Sore throat (less common than with a cold)
• Runny nose is rather rare

Flu can last 1-2 weeks, and the exhaustion can last for weeks.

When should you see a doctor?

See a doctor for a cold:

• If symptoms last more than 10 days
• In case of persistent high fever over 39°C
• If symptoms worsen again after initial improvement
• In case of severe throat or ear pain
• If you belong to a risk group (Pregnant women, People over 65, chronically ill)

When you have the flu, see a doctor:

• In general, you should seek medical advice if you suspect influenza.
• This is particularly important within the first 48 hours after symptom onset.
• Risk groups should seek medical help immediately.
• In case of shortness of breath, persistent high fever, or severe pain.

Proper treatment

Treating a cold

As colds are usually caused by viruses, antibiotics do not help. The treatment focuses on alleviating the symptoms:

Hausmittel und Selbstpflege:

• Viel trinken (warme Tees, Wasser, Brühen)
• Ausreichend schlafen und sich schonen
• Inhalationen mit Salzwasser oder Kamille
• Gargling with salt water for a sore throat
• Nasal rinses to clear the airways

Medication support:

• Pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen for headaches
• Decongestant nasal sprays (use for a maximum of 7 days)
• Expectorants or cough suppressants depending on the type of cough
• Throat lozenges for a sore throat

Treating the flu

The treatment of flu usually requires more attention and possibly medical care:

Basic measures:

• Strict bed rest for at least 5-7 days
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Reduce fever only if it is very high or becomes very distressing
• Pay attention to a balanced, light diet

Drug therapy:

• Antiviral drugs can help if used early
• Pain and fever relievers as per medical consultation
• Antibiotics may be required in case of bacterial complications

Prevention: The best protection

Flu vaccination

The annual flu vaccination is the most effective protection against influenza. It is especially recommended for:

• People over 60 years
• Pregnant women from the 2nd trimester
• People with chronic diseases
• Medical staff

General hygiene measures

Both colds and flu can be reduced by simple measures:

• Regular, thorough hand washing
• Keep distance from sick people
• Do not touch the face
• Sneeze and cough into the crook of your arm
• Ventilate regularly
• Reduce stress and get enough sleep

Strengthen immune system

A strong immune system is the best protection against infections:

• Balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables
• Regular physical activity
• Enough Sleep (7-8 hours per night)
• Stress vermeiden oder abbauen
• Nicht rauchen und Alkohol nur in Maßen

Read also

Naturally strengthen the immune system: The 10 best strategies for autumn

When the days get shorter and the first cold viruses start circulating, a strong immune system is more important than ever. With the right natural strategies, you can specifically strengthen your defenses.

Komplikationen ernst nehmen

Während Erkältungen meist harmlos verlaufen, kann eine Grippe zu ernsthaften Komplikationen führen:

• Lungenentzündung (Pneumonie)
• Herzmuskelentzündung (Myokarditis)
• Brain inflammation (encephalitis)
• Worsening of existing chronic diseases

Therefore, it is important to take the symptoms seriously and seek medical help if they worsen or persist.

Conclusion: Stay alert and act correctly

Distinguishing between a cold and the flu is not always easy, but it is important for the right treatment. While a cold is usually treatable with home remedies and patience, the flu requires more attention and often medical care.

In both cases, the rule is: Listen to your body, allow yourself rest, and do not hesitate to seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen. Prevention through vaccination, good hygiene, and a healthy Immunsystem bleibt der beste Schutz vor beiden Erkrankungen.

Denken Sie daran: Bei Unsicherheiten ist es immer besser, einmal zu viel als einmal zu wenig zum Arzt zu gehen – Ihre Gesundheit ist es wert.