When dealing with a stuffy nose, sneezing fits or a persistent cough, it can be hard to determine whether you\u2019re battling a cold or an allergic reaction. These symptoms overlap significantly, making it tricky to identify the root cause of your discomfort. Let\u2019s dive into the key differences between allergies and the common cold to help you better understand and manage your symptoms.<\/p>\n\n\n
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<\/a> and children even more frequently. Common cold symptoms usually include coughing, headache, sore throat, congestion, sneezing and fever.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
More than 100 million people<\/a> in the United States deal with allergies each year. When your immune system encounters a substance like pollen, mold, dust or pet dander\u2014though typically harmless\u2014it 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Thankfully, most allergy symptoms can be managed through medication, immunotherapy or by avoiding known allergens<\/a>. For example, if you\u2019re allergic to pollen, you may want to stay out of Wells State Park on high-pollen count days.<\/p>\n\n\n
When determining if your symptoms are due to allergies or a cold, consider the duration, timing and triggers.<\/p>\n\n\n
Cold symptoms typically resolve on their own within seven to 10 days, whereas allergy symptoms can persist for the length of time you\u2019re exposed to an allergen.<\/p>\n\n\n
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.<\/p>\n\n\n
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<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n