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Cold and flu myths

a woman blowing her noseDo you know your cold from your flu? Find out about the viruses that cause them, the symptoms and the treatments

  1. 'The flu' is just a really bad cold
    A cold and the flu (influenza) are caused by very different viruses. The flu is much more severe than a cold. For some people, the flu can lead to serious or even fatal complications, requiring a visit to hospital.

    With all the respiratory bugs and conditions floating around, the flu can be difficult for doctors to diagnose.

  2. 'I've got the stomach flu!'
    Many people mistake digestive problems for the flu. While an upset stomach can affect some people with the flu, it's rarely the main symptom. If you're suffering from nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, you probably have another virus, bacteria, or food-poisoning, rather than the flu.

  3. If you go outside in cold, wet weather, you'll catch a cold or the flu
    Colds and the flu are more common in the winter because this is the time of year that viruses spread most quickly. It has nothing to do with the weather or climate. However, the weather can affect how easily you may catch something else, like pneumonia.



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This iVillage Health service area is designed for educational purposes only. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for personal medical attention, diagnosis or hands-on treatment. If you are concerned about your health or that of a child, please consult your family's health provider immediately and do not wait for a response from our professionals. For the full Disclaimer, click here.
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