They say when you have the flu you know it because the symptoms are more severe and come on so quickly. Here's a quick look at the difference between the common cold and flu. Cold symptoms include stuffy or runny nose, sore throat and sneezing. You will likely have a hacking cough.

If it's the flu, you'll get a fever, chills, headache and body aches. Flu symptoms come on fast usually within three to six hours. Coughs are dry and sore throat is less common.