Generic Photo of Flu Patient. (Photo: Thinkstock)
JONESBORO, Ark. (KAIT) - During this time of year many people wake up coughing with a runny nose or an aching body, and most diagnose themselves with the flu but it might just be a common cold.
Doctor Darrell Ragland tells our northeast Arkansas affiliate, KAIT, the flu is much more severe, and could lead to pneumonia whereas a cold is mild and can be treated over the counter.
"With a cold you don't run a high fever, although you may run a low grade fever, with a cold you may have sneezing, sniffles, may have a mild headache but certainly not a high fever or a severe disease," said Dr. Darrell Ragland.
Both the common cold and the flu are caused by viruses.
Ragland said fever and severity of symptoms are the key difference between the two.
For the full story from KAIT, click here.