Experts have identified more than 200 viruses associated with the common cold—and no remedy for any of them. How can you distinguish between a cold and flu, and know when to seek expert help?

If you have a cold, rest and symptom relief are your only options until you start to feel better. With the flu, you have a much greater chance of having an infection, so it’s smart to see your healthcare provider within 24 to 48 hours of the onset of symptoms. Unlike a common cold, flu symptoms seem to come on suddenly and severely. There are prescription antivirals that can shorten and ease the severity of the flu if taken right away.

You should also get a flu shot each fall—the flu shot or mist is recommended; experts at the CDC say these are safe and effective in pregnant and nursing women and children. Pregnant women can receive flu vaccination in any trimester.

Stay your healthy best through frequent hand washing, getting regular exercise and rest and eating well so your immune system is in top form.

Fever, chills, aches or pains: Pain relievers including ibuprofen, acetaminophen, naproxen or ketoprofen.

Coughing: Cough suppressants, such as Robitussin. But don’t take these if you’re coughing up mucus. 1-2 tablespoons of honey also work just as effectively to quiet a cough, research demonstrates. Better yet, stir honey into a hot, decaffeinated tea to get both cough relief and hydration, which is needed for recovery. Don't look for cough suppressants for kids though -- many of these have been discontinued due to the number of troublesome side-effects they were causing. Never give raw honey, though to a baby or toddler due to bacterial concerns.

Coughing with mucus: Expectorants, such as Mucinex, thin the mucus to make your coughs more productive. Drinking 6-8 cups of warm decaffeinated tea or warm juices can work just as well. Add honey to soothe your throat and quiet your cough. Never give raw honey, though to a baby or toddler due to bacterial concerns.

Stuffy nose: Decongestants can reduce that stuffy feeling, but if you take them longer than advised on the label you could end up with rebound congestion that’s worse than your initial symptoms. Many experts prefer a saline sinus rinse and a steamy shower to over-the-counter decongestants for the same benefit without the side effects.

Vomiting or diarrhea: Stick with liquid foods until you feel like your body can tolerate solids. Replenish electrolytes in children through milk, including chocolate milk, but avoid sugary sports drinks that claim to do the same. Low-sugar versions of popular drinks like Gatorade are OK.

Runny nose or eyes: Use an anti-allergy medicine like Zyrtec or Claritin, or an antihistamine to relieve itchy eyes or reduce symptoms.