Share:

From runny noses and watery eyes to scratchy throats and labored breathing, allergies and the common cold have many common symptoms. Before you can remedy the problem, however, you must know which one is affecting you. Here are the major differences between the two as well as some signs that a visit to a physician may be in order.

Allergies

Allergies are the immune system's response to certain substances in the environment. The immune system creates inflammation in the body as a way to protect it against those substances to which it’s particularly sensitive, and inflammation from allergens takes many forms. While some of those forms are similar to cold symptoms, allergies are more apt to cause itchy eyes, wheezing, and skin rashes, like hives. Also, allergies usually come on suddenly after exposure to certain triggers such as dust, pet dander, or pollen.

Colds

physicianUnlike allergies, colds are caused by a viral infection. A cold is more likely to produce fatigue, body aches and pains, and a severe sore throat. In children, colds are often accompanied by high fevers, which are rare with allergies. A cold will generally pass within a week or two, but allergies tend to stick around a lot longer, usually for an entire season or more.

When to See a Physician

There is no cure for the common cold, and most cases will subside on their own without treatment. Visiting a physician can help relieve some of the more distressing symptoms, however. A doctor might prescribe or recommend throat or nasal sprays, decongestants, cough syrup, and other items that can make a cold more bearable.

If you suspect you have allergies, allergy testing is the best course of action. Discuss your concerns with your doctor, and they’ll arrange for medical testing that identifies the source of your flareups and discomfort. Once you discover those substances that are triggering, your doctor will prescribe an appropriate course of treatment and symptom management.

 

Understanding the differences between allergies and colds will keep you in tune with your body and its needs. For any unmanageable cold symptoms or suspected allergies, visit Robertsdale Urgent Care. Serving the Baldwin County, AL, area, the emergency care provider and family medical practice provides allergy testing and treatments to help in allaying colds and the flu. Call (251) 947-3591 to learn more about their practice or visit them online for directions to the office.

tracking