Allergy Center

Many people may not realize they have allergies, often attributing their congestion and runny nose to a cold. Left untreated, allergies can cause more serious conditions like sinusitis or ear infections. It is important to decipher between allergies and colds:

Allergies

Allergy Symptoms:

  • Runny nose with thin, watery discharge
  • Sneezing
  • Congestion
  • Wheezing
  • Itchy nose, throat and eyes

Onset of Allergies

  • Symptoms begin almost immediately after exposure to allergen(s).
  • If seasonal allergies, symptoms occur at the same time every year.
  • If perennial allergies, symptoms are present year-round.

    • Duration of Allergies

    Symptoms last as long as you are exposed to the allergen.

    Cold

    Cold Symptoms

    • Runny nose with watery to thick yellow discharge
    • Sneezing
    • Low grade fever
    • Weakness and fatigue

    Onset of Cold

    Symptoms develop within one to three days of exposure to the cold virus.

    Duration of Cold

    Five to seven days.

    Sources: U.S. Food and Drug Administration, American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology
    Here's a quick list of the differences between allergies and colds.
    A number of medications are effective for treating allergies.
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