Colds and allergies share similar symptoms; it’s hard to know which is which when experiencing those symptoms. Colds are contagious, and allergies are not, so it’s essential to understand the differences so as not to contaminate others when you are ill.
Telltale Symptoms
Colds develop due to a viral infection. Allergy symptoms become present when your body reacts to an otherwise harmless stimulus, such as pollen or mold in Hillcrest Park. The two share common symptoms.
Some cold symptoms:
- Runny nose
- Sore and scratchy throat
- Yellow, green and clear mucus
- Hoarseness
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Coughing, wheezing or breathlessness
Some allergy symptoms:
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Pain or tenderness around the forehead and eyes
- Coughing, wheezing or breathlessness
- Rash, swelling or itchiness on the skin
- Sore throat
- Clear mucus
A common sign of the differences between the two is the color of the mucus. The time of year is also significant as allergy sufferers often experience their allergy symptoms in the fall and spring. Though, there are year-round allergies and colds.
The best way to tell the difference between colds and allergies is through a few factors:
- Duration: Colds often clear up much faster than allergies, typically lasting between five to seven days.
- Mucus: Clear mucus is often associated with allergies. Mucus of another color can sometimes indicate a virus or infection.
- Outlying symptoms: Symptoms such as itchiness, swelling and watery eyes are often associated with allergies primarily.
This isn’t an exclusive list of possibilities or symptoms. Listen to your body, and if something seems out of the ordinary, it’s always okay to call your doctor. Your doctor can work with you to provide symptom relief for both colds and allergies.
Treatment options for colds and allergies differ. Treating a cold can range from home remedies such as tea with honey to over-the-counter pain relievers to help with congestion and headaches. Allergies can be treated with antihistamines, steroids and other options in partnership with your doctor.
If you think you may have allergies and wish to receive allergy testing, contact Spartanburg | Greer ENT & Allergy to schedule an appointment.
