Is It Really
an Allergy?
Many people may not realize they have allergies; they often mistake and
attribute their congestion and runny nose to a cold. Left untreated,
allergies can cause more serious conditions like sinusitis or ear
infections. It is important to know the difference between a common cold and
an allergy. The main difference between a cold and an allergy is the length
of time the symptoms last. A cold normally disappears after a week.
Allergies, on the other hand, can last for weeks or even longer. The
following chart provides a few guidelines to help you tell the difference,
between a common cold and an allergy.
| Allergies vs. Colds
|
| |
Allergies |
Colds |
| Symptoms |
Runny or stuffed nose,
sneezing, wheezing, watery and itchy eyes. |
Can include fever and aches
and pains along with allergy symptoms. |
| Warning Time |
Symptoms begin almost
immediately after exposure to allergen(s). |
Usually take a few days. |
| Duration |
Symptoms last as long as you
are exposed to the allergen, and beyond. If the allergen is present
year-round, symptoms may be chronic. |
Symptoms should clear up
within several days to a week.
|
Common Cold
A cold is caused by a virus. The common symptoms can include a sore,
scratchy throat, sneezing, and a runny nose. Other symptoms may include a
high temperature, headache, watery eyes, cough, and an achy feeling
throughout the entire body. A cold can last anywhere from a week to 10 days.
During that time, a sick person can easily infect a well person, if he/she
breathes in germs or comes in direct contact with an infected person. For
this reason, be sure to frequently wash your hands, use a disinfectant on
any contaminated surfaces and be careful when sneezing and coughing around
others.
There is still no instant cure for the common cold. Letting the cold run its
course is the only cure. If you get a cold, get adequate rest, drink plenty
of water, and eat good nutritious meals. There are many over-the-counter
medicines available to alleviate symptoms, but they will not prevent, cure,
or even shorten the duration of the cold.
Allergies
Allergies are caused by exposure to airborne allergens; as a result the
lining of the nasal cavity becomes irritated and inflamed. Allergies are not
contagious. The symptoms only vary a little from the common cold. They
include sneezing, watery eyes, coughing, itchiness in the nose and throat,
post nasal drip that stays clear, and perhaps a dull headache. A high
temperature and an achy body are not indicative of allergies. The symptoms
last longer than a week and may be year round depending on the allergen.
Numerous allergens may cause symptoms of seasonal allergies: pollens are
most common in the spring and fall. Allergens such as dust mites, animal
dander from pets, molds, fungi and cockroaches may produce year-round
symptoms.
There is no cure for allergies. Several options are available to treat
allergies, including over the counter and prescription medications. Allergy
shots are another alternative.If you suspect you have an allergy, talk with your physician.
He or she can determine if you have an allergic disease that is contributing
to your condition and also help you manage your allergies.
Additional Information:
The more informed you are about the symptoms, the better you can evaluate
your condition. It is important to have any questions about your condition
be answered only by your doctor or other health professional who has had the
opportunity to meet and evaluate your medical condition. For more
information, please see the appropriate
Tip brochure
or speak with your allergist.
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