Decoding Your Symptoms: Is It a Cold or Allergies?
A runny nose or scratchy throat can be confusing, especially when trying to determine if you have a cold or allergies. Both can cause similar discomfort, making it difficult to pinpoint the exact cause. “It can be really hard to tell, especially when things first start,” says Erin L. Reigh, MD, an allergist and immunologist at Dartmouth Health. Yet, there are key differences that can support you understand what’s going on and get the right treatment to feel better quickly.
What are the Common Symptoms of a Cold?
Hundreds of different viruses can cause the common cold, including rhinoviruses, human coronaviruses, parainfluenza viruses, adenoviruses, enteroviruses, and human metapneumovirus. Regardless of the specific virus, common symptoms include:
- Runny nose
- Nasal congestion
- Cough
- Sneezing
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Mild body aches
- Low-grade fever
Influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can also cause cold-like symptoms, but these illnesses are typically more severe than a common cold. It’s also significant to note that a cold can sometimes lead to secondary infections like sinus infections, ear infections, or pneumonia.
What are the Common Symptoms of Allergies?
Allergies can be triggered by various substances, including pollen, dust, grass, and mold. Regardless of the trigger, the body typically reacts in a similar way. Common allergy symptoms include:
- Runny nose
- Nasal congestion
- Cough
- Sneezing
- Itchy skin, nose, or eyes
- Watery or red eyes
- Skin rashes
- Wheezing or shortness of breath
- Sinus pressure or headaches
Some people may also feel fatigued when exposed to an allergy trigger, similar to the feeling of having a cold. “You can have a slightly sick or fatigued feeling,” explains Katrina Johnson, MD, an internal medicine physician at The Ohio State Wexner Medical Center.
Is It a Cold or Allergies? Key Differences
Given the overlapping symptoms, it’s understandable to be unsure whether you have a cold or allergies. Here are some signs that can help differentiate between the two:
Signs of Infection
Colds are less likely to cause fevers than other respiratory infections, like the flu or COVID-19, but a fever is still possible. Allergies, however, do not cause fevers, according to Dr. Reigh. Swollen glands are more common with a cold than with allergies.
Aches and Pains
Pain, such as body aches and a sore throat, often indicates a viral infection like a cold. While allergies can cause throat irritation due to post-nasal drip, a severe sore throat is less common. Body aches are also unusual with allergies.
Itchiness
If you experience itchy or watery eyes, it’s a strong indication that your allergies are acting up rather than a cold, says Dr. Reigh. Itchy ears or an itchy throat can also be signs of allergies.
Symptom Patterns
If you experience the same symptoms every year around the same time—for example, a runny nose and itchy eyes during pollen season—it’s likely seasonal allergies, says Dr. Johnson. Random symptoms without a clear pattern may suggest a cold.
Duration of Symptoms
Colds typically last a few days to a week, unless they develop into a secondary infection. Allergies usually persist as long as you’re exposed to the trigger and aren’t receiving treatment. “Allergic triggers can be out for months at a time,” says Dr. Reigh.
Recent Exposure
You can catch a cold from someone who is sick, but you can’t “catch” allergies. If you’ve been around someone with cold symptoms, it’s more likely you’ve contracted a respiratory infection, says Dr. Johnson.
What to Do If You Have Symptoms
Understanding the differences between allergies and cold symptoms can help you determine the best course of action. If your symptoms aren’t improving or are worsening, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare provider, especially if you’ve had a fever of 100.4°F or higher for four or more days.
How to Treat a Cold
There’s no cure for the common cold, so treatment focuses on managing symptoms. Recommendations include:
- Nasal saline rinse
- Cool mist humidifier
- Medications containing guaifenesin to thin mucus
- Antihistamines to dry out a runny nose
- Over-the-counter pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen) for aches, sore throat, or fever
Rest and hydration are also crucial for recovery.
How to Treat Allergies
The best way to manage allergies is to avoid the trigger, if possible. Dr. Reigh recommends starting with a nasal steroid spray, such as fluticasone or triamcinolone. Antihistamine eye drops can also help relieve itchy, watery eyes. Oral antihistamines can also help manage allergic reactions. For persistent symptoms, a doctor may recommend allergy testing or stronger prescription medications, or even allergy shots.
How to Avoid Getting (and Spreading) a Cold
While allergies often can’t be prevented, you can capture steps to reduce your risk of catching a cold. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends frequent handwashing with soap and water, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and staying home when you’re feeling unwell.