Cold or allergies? Here is how you can tell them apart
ST. LOUIS — Grass and tree pollen levels in the St. Louis region are on the rise. If you suffer from allergies, you’re likely all too familiar with the sneezing, runny nose, congestion, and watery eyes that come with it. Scientists indicate that climate change is causing pollen seasons to start earlier, last longer, and be more intense than in previous years.
Dr. Olujoke Brimah Jones from the Dedicated Senior Medical Center offers advice on how to cope with these heightened allergy symptoms. As pollen counts climb, understanding and managing allergies is becoming more crucial for residents in affected areas.
Dr. Jones highlights the importance of distinguishing between common cold symptoms and allergies, noting that severe symptoms like aches and persistent scratchy throats might warrant medical consultation. She also mentioned that as people age, their immune systems weaken, which can make allergies worse.
How do you tell the difference between a common cold and seasonal allergies? Both of which can cause sneezing and congestion, but stem from very different causes. While a cold is triggered by a virus activating your immune system, seasonal allergies are your body’s response to allergens like pollen.
Now, while both can lead to a runny or stuffy nose, there are notable differences. Those suffering from seasonal allergies typically won’t experience sore throats or coughs, symptoms often linked with a viral infection. Additionally, unlike colds, allergies don’t usually bring on a fever but might cause puffy eyelids and dark circles under your eyes.
In terms of duration, a typical cold can last from three to ten days, but coughs can persist longer. Simple remedies like rest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain relievers can alleviate cold symptoms. On the other hand, seasonal allergies can linger for weeks and may be managed with nasal rinses, antihistamines, or steroid sprays, with a strong recommendation to avoid known allergens as much as possible.
Minimize exposure to allergens by staying indoors during peak pollen times, keeping windows closed, and changing clothes and showering after being outside to reduce symptoms.
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