Cold or allergy: Which is it?

Date Updated: 02/17/2022

Answer Section

If you tend to get "colds" that start suddenly and happen at the same time every year, it's possible that you actually have seasonal allergies. Although colds and seasonal allergies may share some of the same symptoms, they are very different diseases.

Common colds are caused by viruses. Seasonal allergies, however, are immune system responses triggered by exposure to allergens, such as seasonal tree or grass pollens.

You can treat a common cold with rest, pain relievers and cold remedies, such as decongestants. A cold often lasts 5-7 days in adults, although some may last as long as two or three weeks.

You can treat seasonal allergies with antihistamines, nasal steroid sprays and decongestants. Avoid exposure to allergens where possible. Seasonal allergies may last several weeks.

Symptom check: Is it a cold or allergy?
Symptom	Cold	Allergy
Cough	Usually	Sometimes
General aches and pains	Sometimes	Never
Tiredness and weakness	Sometimes	Sometimes
Itchy eyes	Rarely	Usually
Sneezing	Usually	Usually
Sore throat	Usually	Rarely
Runny nose	Usually	Usually
Stuffy nose	Usually	Usually
Fever	Sometimes	Never