- Occurrence of symptoms:
Both allergies and colds cause symptoms of sneezing, congestion, runny nose, watery eyes, fatigue, and headaches. However, colds often cause symptoms one at a time: first sneezing, then a runny nose, and then congestion. Allergies cause symptoms that occur all at once. - Duration of Symptoms:
Cold symptoms generally last from seven to 10 days, whereas allergy symptoms continue as long as a person is exposed to the allergy-causing agent. Allergy symptoms may subside soon after elimination of allergen exposure. - Mucus Discharge:
Colds may cause yellowish nasal discharge, suggesting an infectious cause. Allergies generally cause clear, thin, watery mucus discharge. - Sneezing:
Sneezing is a more common allergy symptom, especially when sneezing occurs two or three times in a row. - Time of Year:
Colds are more common during the winter months, whereas allergies are more common in the spring through the fall, when plants are pollinating. - Presence of a Fever:
Colds may be accompanied by a fever, but allergies are not usually associated with a fever.
Symptoms of allergies and colds can be similar. If you or your children are not feeling well, you should consult a medical doctor to determine if you are in need of treatment. For additional information on allergies, visit tottoriallergy.com or call 702-240-4233 option 3 to schedule an appointment.
