Other conditions with symptoms similar to the flu
Content provided by Healthwise
Other conditions with symptoms similar to the flu
Sometimes it is difficult to tell whether you have influenza or some other viral illness. Many other respiratory viruses, including common cold viruses (rhinoviruses), may mimic the symptoms of a minor case of the flu.
Conditions that people mistake for the flu include:
- A common cold.
- Bacterial infections, such as strep throat, bronchitis, or pneumonia.
- Infectious mononucleosis.
- Stomach flu symptoms (gastroenteritis).
Viral infections such as a cold or flu tend to cause widespread symptoms, such as fever, body aches, a headache, and a sore throat. Bacterial infections tend to have specific symptoms involving only one system, such as a fever and sore throat only.
The flu makes you feel much worse than the common cold. Symptoms often include fever and cough within the first 48 hours of the illness.
Credits
| Author | Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Associate Editor | Terrina Vail |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | W. David Colby, MSc, MD, FRCPC - Infectious Disease |
| Last Updated | September 29, 2006 |
| Last updated: | September 29, 2006 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC |
| Reviewed By: | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine, W. David Colby, MSc, MD, FRCPC - Infectious Disease |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Terrina Vail |
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.
