As winter approaches, cases of sniffles, sore throats, and sneezes also arrive. Now the question arises: Is it a cold or allergies? While colds and allergies share some common symptoms, they still have distinct causes and treatments. They also typically appear around different times of the year. Read this article to understand the difference between cold and allergy symptoms.
Understanding the Difference Between Cold and Allergy Symptoms
Although they can share many similar symptoms, colds, and seasonal allergies are completely different ailments. That is why it is important to understand the context of each so that you can properly treat your symptoms. Here are some key points that will help you to differentiate between a cold and allergies:
Cold
Colds are caused by viruses, most commonly rhinoviruses. They are contagious and can spread from person to person through direct contact with an infected individual or by touching contaminated surfaces. Typically, colds occur during the winter months and are most commonly seen between October and May.
Common cold symptoms include a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat, coughing, and occasionally a low-grade fever. Colds typically last for about a week. It often comes with a gradual onset of symptoms.
Allergies
Allergies, on the other hand, are immune system reactions to allergens like pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or certain foods. Allergies can be present year-round, although they tend to increase during the warmer months due to plant growth cycles.
Common allergy symptoms include sneezing, runny or itchy nose, itchy or watery eyes, and sometimes a scratchy throat. Allergies can persist for weeks or even months. However, its effect depends on the allergen exposure.
How to Manage Cold & Allergy Symptoms
Understanding whether you have a cold or are suffering from chronic allergies can be difficult at first. However, allergy symptoms tend to be longer lasting and more often occur during the warmer months of the year while cold symptoms are short lasting and happen in the colder months of the year. Here are some of the steps that you should take to manage your symptoms:
Cold Management Tips
If you believe you may be suffering from a cold, you likely won’t require medical attention to get symptom relief. Colds are often mild in nature and can be remedied with a few over-the-counter medications and home remedies.
- Rest and Hydration: Get plenty of rest to help your body fight off the virus. Stay hydrated to soothe your throat and thin mucus.
- Over-the-counter Medications: Consider using over-the-counter cold medications to treat symptoms such as congestion, coughing, and fever. Always follow the recommended dosage guidelines.
- Good Hygiene: Practice good hygiene to prevent spreading the virus to others. Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. Don’t forget to wash your hands frequently.
Tips for Managing Allergy Symptoms
If you believe you are suffering from allergies, you should seek medical advice. Medical professionals can test your skin to see what exactly is triggering the reaction and help you eliminate exposure. However, allergy symptoms can be managed with some over-the-counter medications in the meantime. Some simple tips for managing allergies include:
- Identify Triggers: Determine what specific allergens are causing your symptoms. This can help you take steps to reduce your exposure.
- Avoid Allergen Exposure: Minimize exposure if you know the allergen triggering your symptoms. Keep windows closed, use air purifiers, and shower after spending time outdoors to remove allergens from your body.
- Antihistamines: Over-the-counter antihistamines can help alleviate allergy symptoms. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations.
- Allergy Shots: Depending on what you are allergic to and how often you are exposed, you may be eligible to receive allergy shots. These are weekly injections to help build up a tolerance to what you are allergic to over time.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Paramus for Same-Day Illness Treatment
Early diagnosis of an illness can help start treatment early which can prevent more severe symptoms from developing. At AFC Urgent Care Paramus, our facility is state-of-the-art and equipped with an on-site laboratory for advanced diagnostic testing available without an appointment. Simply walk into our clinic, or schedule an appointment online.
We accept most medical insurance plans and offer low-cost treatment so that you can get the care that you need. Don’t put your health on the back burner, visit AFC Urgent Care Paramus today for same-day illness care and diagnostic testing. For additional questions regarding our clinic, please contact us directly by calling 201-262-2010.
