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Colds vs. Allergies

Allergies

Colds vs. Allergies

Because the symptoms of colds and allergies are often similar, it can sometimes be difficult to tell the difference between the two. Despite some overlapping symptoms, the causes are very different.

Causes of Colds

Colds are caused by more than 200 different viruses that can be picked up from various places (such as other people, money, doorknobs, food, etc.). Once the cold virus enters the body, the immune system kicks its defenses into overdrive, causing the body to release different chemicals which result in typical symptoms associated with the common cold.

Causes of Allergies

Unlike colds, allergies are not caused by viruses. Rather, they result from an overactive immune system that identifies harmless substances such as pollen, pet dander, pet hair, or dust as potential threats in some individuals. In this case, the body releases different chemicals to fight the allergy than it would a cold.

Despite the different mechanism, the symptoms associated with allergies are often similar to that of the common cold. For instance, nasal congestion, sneezing, and runny nose are symptoms of both a cold and allergies. Allergies often lead to itchy, watery eyes, something that does not often happen with a cold. Colds are often accompanied by coughing and a sore throat, symptoms not usually associated with allergies. It’s important to know the difference between the common cold and allergies so you treat the problem correctly.

Check out the differences between cold and allergies below.

Characteristic Cold Allergy
Duration Usually 3-14 days

Days to months for seasonal

Often everyday for perennial

Time of Year

Most often in the winter, but possible at any time

All year, some seasonal

Onset of symptoms

Symptoms take a few days to appear after infection with the virus.

Symptoms can begin immediately after exposure to the allergen

Symptom

Cold

Allergy

Cough

Common

Sometimes

General Aches and pains

Slight

Never

Fatigue, Weakness

Sometimes

Sometimes

Itchy eyes

Rare or never

Common

Sneezing

Usual

Usual

Sore throat

Common

Sometimes

Runny nose

Common

Common

Stuffy Nose

Common

Common

Fever

Rare

Never