Ask the Experts: "Isn't the flu just like a bad cold?"
 Emmanuel Yruma, MD Internist CV Arlington Internal Medicine |
Q: Isn't the flu just like a bad cold?--G.C., Arlington
A: Influenza is far more dangerous than a bad cold. It is a disease of the lungs, and it can lead to pneumonia. Each year about 114,000 people in the U.S. are hospitalized and about 20,000 people die because of the flu. Most who die are over 65 years old. But small children less than two years old are as likely as those over 65 to have to go to the hospital because of flu.
Your best protection against the flu is to get a flu shot. If you do feel sick, check your symptoms with those below and ask your primary care provider for advice.
| Cold | Flu | |
|---|---|---|
| Fever: | Rare in adults and older children, but as high as 102 degrees F. in infants and small children | Usually 102 degrees F. but can go up to 104 degrees F. and usually lasts 3 to 4 days |
| Headache: | Rare | Sudden onset and can be severe |
| Muscle aches: | Mild | Usual and often severe |
| Tiredness and weakness | Mild | Can last 2 or more weeks |
| Extreme exhaustion: | Never | Sudden onset and can be severe |
| Runny nose: | Often | Sometimes |
| Sneezing: | Often | Sometimes |
| Sore throat: | Often | Sometimes |
| Cough: | Mild hacking | Usual and can become severe |
Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only. It should not replace a visit with your health care professional. Call your doctor if you need more information or have additional questions.