Flu or cold? This is how you interpret the symptoms correctly

Winter time is often also cold and flu time.

Pathogens have an easy time of it in the cold, wet months.

In this way you can see which illness has specifically caught you.

Munich - malaise, high temperature and runny nose: in many cases the symptoms of a flu or a cold are very similar.

However, there are some differences, not just in terms of signs, but also in how the disease progresses.

But how can you tell whether you have flu or cold symptoms?

Flu or cold?

This is how you interpret the symptoms correctly

A first indication is that the two diseases are often different in severity *.

This means that the typical symptoms of a cold are often less pronounced than with a fatty flu.

This often takes a more difficult course, which can put a lot of strain on the body and circulation.

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A cold is an indicator that you have caught a cold.

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© Patrick Pleul / dpa

The following symptoms are common with a cold:

• Runny nose *, runny nose

• Mucous cough

• Slightly increased temperature (up to 38 degrees Celsius)

• Sore throat

• headache

• Exhaustion

• Slight pain in the limbs

Another indication that speaks for a cold is that a cold usually occurs gradually over several days and can be very persistent.

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Flu or cold?

This is how you interpret the symptoms correctly

A flu infection, on the other hand, comes suddenly and often unexpectedly hits those affected with full force.

The incubation period, i.e. the time from infection to the onset of the disease *, is only one to two days.

Influenza then lasts for about seven to a maximum of 14 days, until those affected feel better again.

It can only last for a few weeks in severe cases.

For example, if there is also a bacterial infection *.

Typical influenza symptoms are:

• High fever * (often over 39 degrees Celsius)

• Dry, irritating cough

• Sore throat

• Severe muscle and limb pain

• Strong exhaustion

Those affected usually feel so exhausted that they have to stay in bed. In addition, they need weeks * after an influenza illness to fully regain their strength. While well-tried household remedies often help against the symptoms * in the case of colds, additional painkillers are sometimes necessary in the case of a real flu. If you are still unsure, a doctor can make the correct diagnosis and initiate appropriate treatment. *

This article only contains general information on the respective health topic and is therefore not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment or medication.

In no way does it replace a visit to the doctor.

Unfortunately, our editors are not allowed to answer individual questions about clinical pictures.

List of rubric lists: © Patrick Pleul / dpa