Flu symptoms that are different from a cold and when to seek help
Some flu and cold symptoms overlap, but they are caused by different viruses
As autumn firmly takes hold and the weather turns chillier, common yet unpleasant illnesses such as flu and colds tend to spread more. This is largely due to increased indoor gatherings with limited ventilation.
And with kids now having gone back after half term, schools and nurseries can often be hotbeds for circulating viruses. Children, due to their close contact with each other and developing immune systems, frequently fall ill. While many symptoms of winter bugs overlap, identifying what you or your child is suffering from can aid in effective treatment.
So, how do flu symptoms differ from those of a common cold? And when should you seek medical advice?
Latest NHS flu symptoms
The NHS advises that flu symptoms appear very quickly and include:
- a sudden high temperature
- an aching body
- a dry cough
- a sore throat
- feeling tired or exhausted
- a headache
- loss of appetite
- diarrhoea or tummy pain
- difficulty sleeping
- feeling sick and being sick
Children with flu may also experience ear pain and seem less active. To treat flu, it's recommended to stay warm, get plenty of sleep and rest, and take paracetamol or ibuprofen to lower your temperature and alleviate aches and pains.
If your child is in discomfort or distress, you can administer paracetamol or ibuprofen, but ensure to check the packaging or leaflet to confirm the medicine's suitability for your child. If unsure, consult a pharmacist or GP.
Both children and adults suffering from flu should drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration. (Your pee should be clear or almost clear)
If you or your child has flu symptoms and you:
- are concerned about your baby's or child's symptoms
- are aged 65 or over
- are pregnant
- have a long-term medical condition – such as diabetes or a condition affecting your heart, lungs, kidneys, brain or nerves
- have a weakened immune system – perhaps due to chemotherapy or HIV
- or if symptoms do not improve after 7 days
you should request an urgent GP appointment or seek help from NHS 111. In case of sudden chest pain, difficulty breathing, or coughing up a significant amount of blood, call 999 or visit A&E immediately.
Latest NHS cold symptoms
Cold symptoms, unlike those with flu, typically develop gradually and may include:
- a blocked or runny nose
- a cough
- sneezing
- a hoarse voice
- a sore throat
- feeling tired and unwell
- a high temperature
- aching muscles
- pressure in your ears and face
- a loss of taste and smell
Colds can usually be treated at home without needing to see a GP. Ensure to drink plenty of fluids, get plenty of rest, and eat nutritious foods.
Hot lemon and honey can be consumed to soothe a sore throat, and inhaling steam may ease a blocked nose. Adults can try gargling salt water for throat pain, but this remedy is not suitable for children.
You should consult a GP if:
- you've had a high temperature for more than three days
- your temperature is extremely high or you feel hot and shivery
- your cold symptoms worsen
- you're concerned about your child's cold symptoms
- you experience shortness of breath or chest pain
- your cold symptoms don't improve after ten days
- you've had a cough for more than three weeks
- you develop cold symptoms and have a weakened immune system (for instance, due to undergoing chemotherapy)
- you exhibit cold symptoms and have a long-term medical condition (such as diabetes, or a heart, lung or kidney condition)