Is it the Common Cold or Seasonal Allergies?
As I sit here writing this I wonder myself since I woke up this morning with an irritated throat, but no other major symptoms…yet…
Colds and seasonal allergies are different even though they share some of the same symptoms. Hopefully, the following will shed some light on both, so you can decide for yourself when the occasion arises.
Allergies typically have a quick onset and decrease quickly once the allergen (the substance you are allergic to) is removed. The common cold comes on slowly and progressively worsens. This is probably one of the most important distinctions since colds do not last longer than 14 days. Symptoms lasting longer may be allergy symptoms.
The common cold is caused by viruses, while seasonal allergies are our immune system responding to exposure to an allergen (i.e. mold, pollen, dust mites, animal dander, etc). The viruses that cause colds are contagious, whereas allergies are not contagious.
The following chart comes from MayoClinic.com to show the differences in symptoms for a cold vs. an allergy:
Symptom Cold Allergy
Cough usually sometimes
General aches/pains sometimes never
Fatigue sometimes sometimes
Itchy eyes rarely usually
Sneezing usually usually
Sore throat usually sometimes
Runny nose usually (yellow mucus) usually (clear)
Stuffy nose usually usually
Fever rarely never
There is no cure for either, but there are ways to help ease symptoms. Treatment for the common cold always includes getting plenty of rest and drinking fluids. Over-the counter remedies i.e. analgesics, and decongestants may help. Try to target approach the symptoms and be aware of multi-symptom medication. These are usually recommended only if you present with at least 3 of the symptoms listed on the product. Seasonal allergies are best prevented by non-exposure to allergens, but often times this is not possible. Antihistamines block histamine which is released when someone has a cold or allergies, and causes symptoms such as nasal congestion and a runny nose. Prescription steroid nasal sprays help relieve swelling in nasal passages. Nasal decongestants also may help.
I hope you are feeling well reading this, but if not, maybe it will help…..Bob just woke up, and said he has a scratchy, irritated throat---I think we both might be getting a cold!!!
