Q: How do you tell the difference between allergies and a cold?
Differentiating the symptoms of a viral upper respiratory cold from allergy is often difficult,”says Lyndall Harrison, MD, an Allergy specialist at Kelsey-Seybold Clinic. “Both often begin with runny nose, sneezing and congestion, and both may respond to antihistamine or decongestant medications. As a general rule, however, the runny nose of a cold will often become thick and discolored, but usually stays clear and thin in allergies. Also, the symptoms of allergic rhinitis mainly localize to the nose and eyes, whereas a viral infection may include fever, chills and achiness. While a cold usually lasts 3-7 days, allergies can persist for an entire season. Finally, allergies are not contagious. If other people in your household are sick, chances are you are suffering from a cold.”
Did You Know?
Allergies can occur seasonally or year round. The symptoms of allergies include: sneezing; itchy, watery eyes; and a runny nose. Sufferers of seasonal allergies will experience symptoms in spring, summer and/or early fall. Those who suffer year round will have symptoms all year long caused by things like house dust, dust mites and animal dander.
What Are Some of the Common Causes of Allergies in Houston?
“Different allergens predominate in different geographic areas,” Dr. Sandberg notes. “The major outdoor causes of allergies in Houston are pollen from grass, oak and ragweed. The high humidity in Houston also increases the risk of mold allergy, while warm weather produces long growing seasons.
