Flu or Cold? Recognizing Flu Symptoms in Adults

We know that telling the difference between the flu and a common cold can be tricky, especially since both share many symptoms. However, understanding the key differences can help you decide when to seek medical care. Flu symptoms usually appear suddenly and tend to be more severe. They often include:

● High fever
● Chills
● Significant body aches
● Fatigue or extreme tiredness
● Headache
● Dry cough
● Sore throat
● Occasionally, nausea or vomiting (especially in children)

Cold symptoms typically develop gradually and are generally milder. You may experience:

● Runny or stuffy nose
● Sneezing
● Sore throat
● Mild to moderate cough
● Mild fatigue or body aches (less severe than with the flu)
● Fever is uncommon in adults but can sometimes occur in children

If you notice that your symptoms came on suddenly, with a high fever and severe body aches, you may have the flu. If your symptoms are mainly a runny nose, sore throat, and mild cough, it’s more likely a cold.

If you have underlying health conditions, trouble breathing, chest pain, or if your symptoms worsen or do not improve, it’s important to seek medical care. A definitive diagnosis can only be made by a healthcare professional, and sometimes laboratory testing is needed. Our team is here to help you figure out what’s causing your symptoms and recommend the best treatment.

At Carrboro Family Medicine Center, we want our community to be well-informed about common flu symptoms in adults, so you know when to seek care. Typical flu symptoms include the sudden onset of fever, often with chills and sweating. Many patients report a persistent dry cough and a sore throat, along with muscle aches, joint pain, and general fatigue or weakness. Headaches are also common and can sometimes be severe enough to disrupt your daily routine.

You may also notice nasal congestion, a runny nose, sneezing, and, in some cases, mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea or a reduced appetite. These symptoms usually develop quickly and can last from one to two weeks.

If you or a family member experience worsening symptoms, have difficulty breathing, or have underlying health conditions that put you at higher risk for complications, please contact us promptly. Our team is here to provide expert care, answer your questions, and help you recover as quickly and comfortably as possible.

We want our patients to be informed about what to expect if they come down with the flu. In adults, flu symptoms usually begin suddenly and can last from five to seven days. While most people start to feel better within a week, it’s not uncommon for some symptoms—like fatigue or a lingering cough—to persist for up to two weeks or even longer. The most intense symptoms, such as fever, body aches, sore throat, and chills, typically improve after three to four days.

If you have underlying health conditions or a weakened immune system, your symptoms may last longer or be more severe. Even after the main symptoms improve, it’s normal to feel tired or weak for several days.

If your flu symptoms are getting worse instead of better, or if you experience complications such as difficulty breathing, persistent high fever, or chest pain, please contact us right away. Our dedicated team is here to help you manage your symptoms and ensure your recovery is on track. Your health and well-being are our top priorities.

If you suspect you have the flu, Carrboro Family Medicine Center encourages you to take your symptoms seriously and take steps to recover while protecting those around you.

First, please stay home and rest as much as possible to avoid spreading the virus to your family, coworkers, and community. Drink plenty of fluids—such as water, herbal teas, and clear broths—to stay hydrated, since fever and sweating can cause dehydration. Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help lower your fever and relieve body aches, but remember to follow the dosing instructions. If you have any underlying health conditions or questions about which medications are safe for you, our providers are here to help—just give us a call.

Keep a close watch on your symptoms. Most people recover from the flu within about a week. However, certain groups—including young children, older adults, pregnant women, and anyone with chronic illnesses—are at higher risk for complications. If you belong to one of these groups, or if your symptoms are particularly severe, please contact us as soon as possible. In some cases, our healthcare team may prescribe antiviral medications, especially if you reach out within the first 48 hours of symptom onset.

If you experience any of the following warning signs, seek immediate medical attention: difficulty breathing, chest pain, persistent high fever, confusion, severe weakness, dehydration, or if you are unable to keep fluids down. These may be signs of serious complications that require urgent care.

At Carrboro Family Medicine Center, Dr. Yulia Neyman explains the key differences between flu and cold symptoms. While both share common signs like congestion, flu symptoms are often more intense, including fever, muscle aches, and fatigue. Understanding these differences can lead to earlier intervention and better management of the illness.

To help prevent the spread of the flu in your home and our Carrboro community, practice good hand hygiene, cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, and clean frequently touched surfaces. If you have any concerns or if your symptoms get worse, don’t hesitate to reach out to Carrboro Family Medicine Center. Our team is dedicated to supporting your health and answering your questions every step of the way. To consult our professionals, please contact us or book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 610 Jones Ferry Rd Suite 102, Carrboro, NC 27510. We serve patients in Chapel Hill NC, Southern Village NC, Fearrington NC, Blands NC, and surrounding areas.