A low fever is also possible, along with a general sense of just not feeling well. Most colds run their course in a few days. With the flu, symptoms may move into the chest, with coughing and possible congestion. You'll also have a sore throat and nasal congestion. Fever of more than 101 degrees Fahrenheit for several days is possible.
Flu also causes muscle aches and tiredness.
Doctors at UT Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas say one way to distinguish the flu is its sudden onset. You'll go to bed one night feeling well and wake up in the morning ill. Both illnesses are caused by viruses, so they can't be treated with antibiotics. You just have to wait it out. Antibiotics may be given during the flu in some cases, but that's to ward off more serious secondary infections that may occur, such as bronchitis and pneumonia.