Both the common cold and the flu can present with symptoms of coughing, weakness in the limbs, and generalized aches and pains. Colds are caused by viral infections. The virus invades the local mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract and can cause coughing symptoms. At the same time, the virus can enter the bloodstream, causing a systemic inflammatory response and fever. Weakness of the limbs and generalized aches and pains may be related to the excessive production of lactic acid caused by fever, and fever consumes the body’s energy. The common cold is mainly characterized by upper respiratory tract symptoms, mainly nasal congestion, runny nose, cough, cough sputum, fever, weakness of the limbs, body aches and pains are mild. Influenza is mainly based on systemic symptoms, fever, weakness of limbs, generalized pain symptoms are more obvious, while nasal congestion, runny nose, cough, cough sputum symptoms are milder. Common colds are generally self-limiting and can be cured by drinking plenty of water and resting without targeted antiviral treatment. Influenza requires early treatment with antiviral drugs. Cough, limb weakness, body aches and pains can also be caused by other diseases. If the symptoms do not improve or worsen, it is recommended to consult a doctor in time, complete the examination, clarify the cause of the disease and follow the doctor’s instructions to avoid delaying the disease.