Cold or Allergy? How to Tell the Difference

When springtime rolls around and you’re suddenly plagued by a stuffy nose and frequent sneezing, it can be hard to tell if you’re suffering from allergies or a cold.

The symptoms may be similar at times, but it’s important to identify your condition so you can ensure you get the correct treatment.

Key differences between allergies and colds

The main difference between allergies and a cold is that allergies are caused by allergens such as dust or pollen, while a cold is caused by a virus. Allergies usually involve sneezing, watery eyes, and an itchy nose, whereas the primary signs of having a cold are a hacking cough and congestion.

Allergic reactions tend to be more persistent and can last for days or weeks, while most colds clear up within a few days. Allergies can also be seasonal, meaning they occur at certain times of the year when allergen levels are higher, like in springtime with pollen.

A cold may also be accompanied by a fever, body aches, or a sore throat. These symptoms aren’t common with allergies. Similarly, allergens may also cause issues that colds don’t such as itchy ears, dark circles and watery eyes.

Colds tend to happen all year round and usually affect only one person in a single household. Treatment for an allergy often involves taking antihistamines to reduce the reaction, while a cold is usually treated with rest and over-the-counter medications.

Treatments

Understanding the differences between allergies and a cold is important to ensure you get the proper treatment.

If symptoms last longer than usual or aren’t improved by common treatments, it could indicate allergies, and you may need to see a doctor for further advice. If left untreated, allergies can also have more serious side effects, such as difficulty breathing or anaphylaxis. Therefore, any allergy must be identified and managed correctly to reduce the risk of health complications. You can get 24 hour urgent care through a virtual healthcare provider.

A fever might be an indication that you have a cold. You may want to take some over-the-counter cold medicine and ensure you get plenty of rest. You can try some home remedies to help get relief from cold symptoms. Drink warm liquids to soothe a sore throat or steam inhalation to ease congestion. It’s also vital to get some rest and drink plenty of liquids.

The bottom line

Overall, allergies and a cold have distinct symptoms and treatments. Allergies are caused by allergens, while a cold is caused by a virus. Allergic reactions tend to be persistent and last for days or weeks, whereas most colds clear up within a few days.

Understanding the differences between the two is crucial to ensure you get the proper treatment.

If you’re unsure whether your symptoms are due to an allergy or a cold, it’s best to consult your doctor for further advice and clarification. With their help, you can be sure that any allergies are managed correctly and that you receive the right treatment to alleviate your symptoms.