Allergy Info Now

Allergy and colds share many similar symptoms. So how can you tell whether the symptoms you have indicate allergy or cold? It’s easier than you think. Take a minute to examine the information below which will give you a clearer understanding of allergy symptoms verses cold symptoms.

Nasal Discharge Both allergy and colds often cause runny nose and nasal discharge in the form of mucus. Mucus resulting from a cold is usually yellow or green-colored indicating an infection usually resulting from exposure to a virus, whereas mucus from an allergy is usually clear in color and results from exposure to an allergen.

Aches and Pains Colds are usually accompanied by achy muscles and/or a slight headache. Allergies do not usually cause either of these symptoms.

Length of Symptoms Colds can often last anywhere from 7-14 days, clear up, and are gone. Allergy symptoms can be seasonal particularly if the trigger originates from an outdoor source such as tree or grass pollen; if allergy is related to an indoor allergen such as household dust, dust mites, mold, or pet dander, it can be constant, or come and go depending on amount of exposure to the trigger.

Itching Itching in the eyes, throat, nose or mouth is almost always an indication that your body is over reacting to an allergen.

Being aware of this information is a start, but the most reliable way to determine whether symptoms indicate allergy or cold, and whether medicine is indicated is to consult a physician.