Is it a Common Cold...or Allergies?

Sore throat? Stuffy and/or runny nose? Watery eyes? Sneezing? When you're feeling miserable with any or all of these symptoms, it can be hard to tell whether they're caused by a common cold or by allergies.

Let's start by defining the difference: A common cold is a contagious viral infection, usually in your upper respiratory tract, which may last 3 to 10 days. An allergy is an overreaction of your immune system to a certain substance, such as pollen or ragweed.

Colds and allergies tend to peak in the spring, when you're enjoying time with lots of people and when plants and flowers are blooming and winds are high. Some people experience year-round allergies to dust, artificial fragrances, or other things in the environment.

So, how to tell the difference — and can an Urgent Care help you feel better?

Again, colds and allergies feel similar, but here's where they tend to part company.

Allergies

  • You're Sick for Longer.
    If you're still feeling poorly after 10 days to a week, it's more likely you have allergies than a cold — although a cold-related cough can hang on for longer.
  • You're Itchy.
    Itchy eyes, nose, throat, and skin also point to allergies.
  • You feel "Triggered."
    You notice symptoms starting immediately upon exposure to an allergen, whether outdoors or inside.
  • You're Not Contagious.
    No one you spend lot of time with is becoming ill.

Common Cold

  • You may have a fever.
    The fever will most likely be low-grade — between about 99.5 and 100.3 degrees
  • Your body may ache.
    Viral infections — which is what colds are — can trigger mild body aches as a result of inflammation and your immune response. You might also have a headache.
  • You Just Want to Sleep.
    Colds can cause quite a bit of fatigue during the day.
  • Your Symptoms Worsen in the Morning Or at Night.
    Due to hormonal fluctuations, the intricacies of the immune system, and body positioning, colds are usually at their most severe during the morning and evening hours. This may also be because daytime distractions make it easier to ignore or tolerate symptoms.

The good news: Whether it's a cold or allergies, Urgent Care can help. Your UC provider is equipped to suggest home remedies and/or over-the-counter medications; prescribe medication; or — if it is allergies — refer you to a specialist who can partner with you to get symptoms and triggers under control.

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