1. Take the Test
Many symptoms for the cold and flu are similar, which make it hard to tell the difference between the two at times. It is important to know which one you may have, as that will determine the course of treatment that you will take. Seeing your doctor once you start to feel sick is a good option. If you start coughing, feel aches and pains and are not sure what you may be suffering from, then your doctor should be able to do some tests to determine if you have a cold or the flu. Seeing your doctor at the onset of symptoms can help him determine which of the two that you have. After you're diagnosed, you can then get a proper recommendation on treatment and medications that you can take to help you get better.
2. Listen to Your Body
You know your body best and know exactly what is going on. Observing symptoms that you are experiencing will help you to understand which of the two you might have. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, you can usually tell the difference between the two by the intensity of symptoms. Colds generally are not as bad as the flu, so things such as a cough, runny nose and congestion are to be expected. With the flu you will notice symptoms such as fever, and coughing will be more intense. You can also refer back to past times when you have had the cold or flu. Think about how your body felt at those times. Having a point to refer to will help you to see if you are more likely experiencing a cold or the flu.
3. Figure Out What You Can Do
Another way to understand the difference between a cold and flu is seeing how you are currently feeling and what you are able to do. Most people with a cold are still able to go to work or school. On the other hand, most people with the flu usually are more tired and feel symptoms more intensely, causing them to do less. If you feel that you are sick, but are still able to go to work or school, you could be suffering from the common cold. However, if you are feeling more run down than usual and would rather go back to bed, you may very well have the flu.
