The common cold and seasonal allergies have similar symptoms, but completely different causes. Colds and allergies are treated in much the same way. Because there is no cure for either one, the symptoms are treated in an effort to make the individual as comfortable as possible. Colds can occur at almost any time of year, while seasonal allergies such as hay fever occur mainly in the spring and fall. Allergies to pet dander and dust mites may occur year-round.
Causes
Colds are caused by viruses and can be contagious during the first few days. Allergies are caused by the body's reaction to certain types of allergens, such as pollen and pet dander. Allergens are unique to the individual and cannot be passed from person to person. Both colds and allergies can weaken the immune system and make way for other more serious diseases, such as bronchitis and sinus infections.
Symptoms
Colds and allergies have many of the same symptoms. Runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing and coughing are all possible. Fever may or may not accompany other cold symptoms. With allergies, many of the symptoms appear quickly and at the same time. On the other hand, symptoms of a cold may appear one at a time over a period of a few hours. They also may increase in severity over the first few hours.
With a cold or flu, the discharge from the nose may be yellow or green, while the nasal discharge caused by an allergy is usually clear.
Allergy symptoms may appear to worsen at night and clear up in the morning. Most plants pollinate at night, which sends higher levels of pollen into the air.
Duration
The duration of symptoms may also indicate the difference between a cold and an allergy. Cold symptoms can last anywhere from a week to 10 days, with the most intense symptoms occurring within the first 24 hours. Allergy symptoms, on the other hand, subside when the body is no longer exposed to the allergen.
Treatments
Over-the-counter medications are used to treat the symptoms of both allergies and colds. Many combinations are on the market to treat a variety of symptoms. Many are taken at night, in the hope that the medication will help with sleep.
In addition to over-the-counter medications, physicians suggest that drinking lots of water will help flush the body and hopefully shorten the duration of a cold. Many physicians also suggest increasing vitamin C and zinc to aid the immune system in fighting off any further bouts of infection.
Prevention
Preventing the common cold can be difficult, but things can be done to reduce the risk of contracting one. Washing hands often when in public, not sharing eating utensils and taking a vitamin/mineral supplement may help somewhat.
The best way to prevent allergies is to avoid the allergenic substances. While this may pose a problem, medications are available that can be taken on a regular basis to reduce symptoms and discomfort during allergy season.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Common Cold
- Dr, Spock: Allergy or Cold
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Balch; 2006
