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What are the Differences Between Colds & Allergies?
Seasonal allergies and colds share some common symptoms, so it may be hard to tell them apart. Colds are caused by viruses, while allergies are due to the body’s own response to allergy-causing substances like pollen, mold or pet dander. This sensitivity causes your immune system to react, which results in the symptoms you experience.
Use this table to help you differentiate between an allergy and cold:
| Symptoms | Cold | Allergies |
Cough |
Usually |
Occasionally |
Aches & pains |
Occasionally |
Never |
Fatigue & weakness |
Occasionally |
Rarely |
Itchy eyes |
Rarely |
Usually |
Sneezing |
Usually |
Usually |
Sore throat pain |
Usually |
Rarely |
Runny nose |
Usually |
Usually |
Stuffy nose |
Usually |
Usually |
Fever |
Rarely |
Never |
The duration and frequency of symptoms may also help you tell the difference. The symptoms of a cold typically last 3 to 14 days, but allergy symptoms last longer, usually for weeks, or as long as the person is exposed to an allergen. Colds tend to occur in the winter, and they often take several days to show up after exposure to a virus. With seasonal allergies, the onset of symptoms occurs immediately after exposure to either indoor or outdoor pollens in the winter, spring, summer, or fall.
Because allergies and colds are very different illnesses, they warrant different types of over-the-counter treatments. Avoiding allergy-causing substances, if possible, can also help to reduce your allergy symptom burden.
