6. Sore throats are common with both the flu and a cold.

7. Stuffy or runny nose -- These are common with both the flu and a cold but are more common with children who have the flu than with adults with the flu.

8. Stomach problems such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea are sometimes associated with the flu -- a more common symptom with children -- but uncommon with a cold.

If you have any of the symptoms commonly associated with the flu, you should see your doctor ASAP --remember , within 48 hours of the onset of flu symptoms, he or she may be able to treat you with antiviral medications that may reduce the severity of your symptoms and shorten their duration.

Here are a few other suggestions that may help get you through the misery of having the flu:

1. Get enough sleep. Not only will sleep help your body recover more quickly from the flu, but also when you are asleep, you are not suffering .