The Difference Between Allergy And Cold Symptoms

 
Many people suffer from seasonal allergies every year, but those who suffer less often will wonder if a cold virus is the primary cause of their health problems. There are some differences between the two conditions that we will cover here but you may have to see a doctor for a definitive answer. The question of an allergy symptom vs a cold symptom is one that ponders people all the time.

Cold symptoms typically settle in somewhere between one and four days from your infection with the virus. They will likely last at least 3 days (sometimes much longer) and are brought on as your body's reaction to the infection. The most common symptom is a sore throat but others include a runny nose, headache, cough, and a low grade fever. The color of the nasal discharge may initially be clear but turn yellow to even green. This may indicate an infection that requires the attention of your doctor. Your physician may recommend over the counter medicine or prescription drugs if he feels a stronger treatment is required. If the infection is in your chest then stronger medication could be the recommended treatment. Rest and fluids will also help your body heal.

Allergy Symptoms Are More Persistent

If the symptoms you have last longer than two weeks then they may be the result of allergies. The biggest problem is that allergies, especially when any symptom first shows up, can be easily confused with a common cold. The most common allergy symptoms are itchy and watery eyes, stuffy nose, post nasal drip, and repeated sneeze attacks. One thing to consider is if you have a symptom like green fluid dripping from the nose and it is not you typical outdoor allergy season then the likely culprit is a cold or similar infection. Persistence is a key when looking at an allergy vs a cold.

Again, your doctor is a very important resource for you when figuring out what the main cause of your symptoms are. He can provide various tests to determine if your problems are indeed allergy related. A simple skin test is quite painless yet can provide a list of all the allergies you suffer from. In the future you will know what types of things you should avoid whether they be seasonal problems like pollen or food items like peanuts. The longer your reaction lasts the longer you will be sapped of your energy, which can affect your quality of life. That's why it's important to get to the root cause.

 

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