When dealing with a stuffy nose, sneezing fits or a persistent cough, it can be hard to determine whether you’re battling a cold or an allergic reaction. These symptoms overlap significantly, making it tricky to identify the root cause of your discomfort. Let’s dive into the key differences between allergies and the common cold to help you better understand and manage your symptoms.
Recognizing The Common Cold
The common cold is a viral infection that affects the upper respiratory tract. Nearly everyone experiences it at some point, with adults typically catching two to three colds per year and children even more frequently. Common cold symptoms usually include coughing, headache, sore throat, congestion, sneezing and fever.
While there is no cure for the common cold, cold medication, rest, hydration and nasal irrigation can help reduce your symptoms. There are ways to minimize your risk of getting sick. Regular hand washing, avoiding face-touching and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help protect you.
Recognizing Allergies
More than 100 million people in the United States deal with allergies each year. When your immune system encounters a substance like pollen, mold, dust or pet dander—though typically harmless—it may mistakenly identify it as a threat. In response, your body releases histamine, which triggers the symptoms we associate with allergies. These symptoms can include difficulty breathing, itchy eyes, nose and skin, hives or rash, red or watery eyes, sneezing, headache and nasal congestion.
Thankfully, most allergy symptoms can be managed through medication, immunotherapy or by avoiding known allergens. For example, if you’re allergic to pollen, you may want to stay out of Wells State Park on high-pollen count days.
Spotting the Differences: Allergies vs. Cold
When determining if your symptoms are due to allergies or a cold, consider the duration, timing and triggers.
Duration
Cold symptoms typically resolve on their own within seven to 10 days, whereas allergy symptoms can persist for the length of time you’re exposed to an allergen.
Timing
Colds can strike at any time of the year but are more prevalent in the chilly months. On the other hand, allergies are often seasonal, flaring up in response to specific allergens like pollen, which is more common in the spring, summer and fall.
Triggers
While pinpointing the exact source of a cold can be difficult, allergies often have identifiable triggers. If you suspect your symptoms result from allergies, an allergy specialist can conduct tests to identify which substances are causing your reactions.
Living with constant sneezing and a stuffy nose is frustrating and can affect your sleep, mood, productivity and overall quality of life. If you’re unsure whether you’re dealing with allergies or a cold or need help managing your symptoms, contact ENT Associates of Worcester today to schedule an appointment with one of our trusted experts.