Diagnosing allergies from the common cold can be a difficult task. Many of the symptoms that develop when someone has an allergic reaction look very similar to the symptoms of the common cold, according to MayoClinic.com. Although the symptoms can be very similar, certain signs can clue an individual into how to distinguish the difference. A medical doctor will be able to properly diagnose and recommend treatment for the condition. Do not self-medicate without talking with a physician first.
Source
The primary difference between allergies and the common cold is the source of the symptoms. Allergies are the result of a reaction from the immune system as it tries to fight off a particular substance such as mold, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, or the AAAAI. The common cold is a sickness that is the result of catching one of more than 200 different viruses, according to MayoClinic.com.
Similar Symptoms
Allergies and the common cold share similar symptoms such as a runny nose, fatigue, stuffy nose, sore throat and coughing, according to MayoClinic.com. An allergic reaction and the common cold viruses cause mucus membranes to produce an excessive amount of mucus and both irritate the sinus cavity. These two actions produce most of the common symptoms.
Different Signs
Because most of the symptoms are similar, certain signs should be observed to distinguish between allergies and the common cold. CNN.com states that allergies will produce clear, thin mucus secretions while the common cold produces thick, yellow mucus secretions. Allergies can cause sneezing fits and do not cause body aches or a fever. The common cold will cause a low-grade fever, body aches and sneezing that is more isolated. Allergy symptoms surface quickly, while a cold progressively gets worse.
Duration
An allergic reaction will last as long as the person is exposed to the allergen. In some cases, the allergic reaction can continue even after the allergen is removed. For example, if someone is allergic to mold and her bedroom has mold spores in the carpet, she will experience chronic allergy symptoms until the mold is eliminated. Common cold symptoms last for five to seven days, according to CNN.com.
Treatment
The AAAAI states that allergies are treated by avoiding allergens, taking OTC antihistamines and decongestants and by participating in immunotherapy. The common cold has no cure, according to MayoClinic.com. Common cold treatment is rest, drinking more liquids and taking OTC drugs to manage the symptoms. The body will fight the virus and kill it after a few days.
