It may be difficult to differentiate between cold and allergy symptoms because they are so similar. Some of the most common symptoms of colds and allergies are a runny nose, sneezing, cough and sore throat, according to the Mayo Clinic. If you experience these symptoms, make an appointment to see your doctor for a proper diagnosis. It is important to know the cause of the symptoms in order to accurately treat them.
Causes
The common cold is a viral infection caused by one of 200 various viruses. No cure for the common cold exists, but many over-the-counter (OTC) drugs can help provide relief for typical symptoms, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Allergies are an overreaction by the immune system to a particular substance--an allergen--such as pollen. When you have an allergic reaction, your body releases histamine to combat the allergen, resulting in common allergic reactions.
Similar Symptoms
Similar cold and allergy symptoms are a runny nose, nasal congestion, sinus pressure, coughing and sore throat. Nasal congestion may cause postnasal drip, where excess mucus drains down the back of your throat. Postnasal drip is what can cause cough and sore throat with both allergies and colds. Sneezing is also common for both conditions.
Different Symptoms
The major difference in cold and allergy symptoms is their onset and duration. Allergy symptoms tend to come on suddenly, around the time of year when pollen counts are highest, and last for the entire allergy season. Cold symptoms come on slowly, gradually worsen over a few days and last for about a week. The nasal discharge (runny nose) with a common cold is typically thick and yellowish in color, while the discharge from allergies is clear and thin. Allergies also produce an irritating itch in the eyes, nose and throat--which is unlikely for the common cold. Sneezing from allergies is usually in the form of abrupt, sudden sneezing fits, while sneezing from the common cold is isolated and controlled.
Treatment
The most common treatment for colds and allergies are OTC medications such as decongestants, antihistamines and pain relievers, according to the National Library of Medicine. Drinking at least six 8-oz. glasses of water daily and getting eight hours of sleep nightly can help shorten the duration of the common cold. The National Library of Medicine warns not to give children under the age of 6 cold and allergy mediation without a doctor's recommendation.
Prevention
The best way to prevent the common cold is to practice good hygiene by washing your hands with hot, soapy water as often as possible. You can prevent allergies by avoiding allergens--staying indoors and maintaining a dust-free home.
