How to Tell the Difference Between Allergies and a Cold
Dr. Kevin Glynn understands why many people have a hard time telling the difference between respiratory infections -- that is, colds -- and allergies. "I'm an allergy sufferer, so I've dealt with this from both sides of the stethoscope," says Glynn, a retired pulmonologist in La Jolla, California. "It's a question I personally face every few months."
The similarities between cold symptoms and allergy symptoms can make it difficult to tell which condition you're suffering from. "Allergies and respiratory viruses are often difficult to tell apart," Glynn says. "I can empathize with the dilemma people often face, and understand why some people look to a doctor for a cure that may not exist."
[See: 10 Cold and Flu Myths Debunked.]
How to Tell the Difference Between an Allergy and a Cold
Nasal stuffiness, sneezing and a runny nose can by symptoms of both a cold and allergies, Glynn says. But there are differences in symptoms that can help you determine which one you're suffering from. For example, if in addition to your other symptoms you're also experiencing a sore throat and/or a fever, muscle aches and yellow mucus, you've probably got an infection or a cold, Glynn says.
Allergy symptoms can vary but commonly include post-nasal drip, ear fullness and itchy and watery eyes, says Dr. Princess Ogbogu, director of allergy and immunology at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus, Ohio. Some people also develop wheezing, cough and shortness of breath after coming into contact with their allergens, she says. "While colds are caused by hundreds of different viruses, allergies are triggered by harmless substances, like ragweed, pollen or cat dander that your body mistakes for a threatening invader," she says. "In either case, symptoms result from your immune system's response to the interloper: the release of the chemical histamine, for example, causes your sinuses to swell, your nose to run and sneezing."
Allergies tend to attack after you're directly exposed to them, says Dr. Jeremy Allen, medical director for American Family Care's Birmingham, Alabama, region. "Cutting grass, standing at the soccer complex or riding with the windows down [can all expose you to allergens]," Allen says. "Beautiful changes in weather bring allergies, not colds. Allergies cause things related to histamine; itchy eyes and throat, runny nose and red blotches on the skin."
[See: 8 Secrets of People Who Don't Get Sick.]
Symptoms of Sinus Infections
Colds and allergies aren't typically major health risks, but they can lead to sinus infections, which can be very uncomfortable. Sinus infections are, not surprisingly, characterized by both cold symptoms and allergy symptoms. These symptoms include sinus pain and pressure, thick nasal discharge and, for some, fever, Ogbogu says. Some people with sinus infections also experience headache, a sense of malaise, facial tenderness, tooth discomfort, bad breath and worsening pressure when tilting their head forward, she says.
Treatment Options
Over-the-counter remedies for symptoms of colds and allergies are often the same and are typically safe if you happen to mistake a cold for an allergy, or vice versa. For example, antihistamines such as Benadryl, Claritin or Zyrtec dry up your nasal passages. OTC steroid nasal sprays, like Flonase, can help manage allergy symptoms. Meanwhile, decongestants like Sudafed or Tylenol Sinus can help reduce swelling to relieve a stuffed-up sensation. OTC pain relievers such as Advil or Tylenol can help alleviate fevers and aches.
[See: 9 Ways to Boost Your Immune System.]
However, certain medications won't be effective if they're not the right ones for your condition, says Dr. Clifford Bassett, founder and medical director of Allergy and Asthma Care of New York in New York City and author of "The New Allergy Solution: Supercharge Resistance, Slash Medication, Stop Suffering." "Allergy medicine is generally safe to take when you have a cold and should not worsen your cold," Bassett says. "However, allergy medicine will likely be ineffective against the specific symptoms caused by the cold. If you think it's a cold, you should see your doctor or health care provider if your symptoms do not go away in about a week or if they worsen. About 10 percent of the time, a cold may progress to a sinus infection, which may require specific treatment, including antibiotics. Let your doctor know about all your symptoms to help him or her figure out just what may be ailing you."
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