Is My Runny Nose Allergies or a Cold?
Spring has sprung! Do you find yourself with congestion or a constant runny nose that won’t go away? It’s not always easy to tell whether a runny nose is caused by seasonal allergies or the onset of a cold, but there are a few key symptoms that can help you spot the difference.
Key Differences
Allergies, which are often caused by increased pollen and dander in the air, are your immune system’s reaction to environmental factors. Allergies can feature these symptoms and characteristics:
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Congestion with a runny or stuffy nose
- Postnasal drip (mucus running down the back of your throat)
- Frequent, rapid-burst sneezing
- Itchy nose or throat
- Clear and thin mucus discharge
- Symptoms appear suddenly and often around the same time each year or around certain triggers like being outdoors or around pets
- Symptoms can last for weeks
“It is very unlikely that you’ll have a fever when suffering from seasonal allergies,” says PIH Health Family Medicine Physician, Diana Otuwa MD. “That is why it’s important to pay attention to your other symptoms when you’re starting to feel under the weather.”
If you find that you’re experiencing the symptoms below, you may have a cold. A cold is caused by viruses, that are often spread by contact.
A cold can feature these symptoms and characteristics:
- Sore throat
- Body aches
- Low-grade fever
- Congestion with a runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Cough
- Watery eyes
- Fatigue
- Symptoms come on gradually and are the worst in the first few days and then improve
- These symptoms also tend to last about 7-10 days
“If your symptoms are severe, last longer than about 10 days, or include a high fever or difficulty breathing, it’s always a good idea to check in with your doctor,” shares Dr. Otuwa.
Treatment for Allergies and Colds
Whether your symptoms are caused by allergies or cold, the goal is simple—to find relief. Here are some helpful tips to get you feeling better.
Allergy treatment and prevention:
- Treat with over-the-counter antihistamines or nasal steroids
- Use a saline nasal rinse to wash out allergens from your nose
- Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Keep windows closed during high pollen days
Colds treatment and prevention:
- Treat with over-the-counter cold medicines
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Rest as much as possible
- Wash your hands often to prevent spreading germs
While colds and allergies can share similar symptoms, understanding the key differences can help you manage them more effectively and know when to seek care. Paying attention to factors like symptom duration, presence of fever, and potential triggers can make it easier to determine what you’re experiencing and choose the right treatment. If your symptoms persist or you’re unsure about the cause, it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional.
Need to find a primary care physician? Visit PIHHealth.org/Doctors for a complete list of doctors in your area.
