The Truth About Colds and Flu

Even though they're common, there are still many misconceptions about colds and flu.

New York–Presbyterian Hospital offers some information to help you sort through the facts and fictions of colds and flu.

To begin, colds and flu are different. A cold is usually an upper respiratory tract infection. Symptoms include a sore throat, head congestion, sinus pain, and low–grade fever. Flu symptoms usually include a higher fever, a sore throat, cough and body aches.

A cold usually lasts two to three days while a flu can last as long as a week. Flu can lead to more serious health complications, especially in the elderly and people with asthma.