Sneezing, congestion and running nose, coughing, and throat irritation can all be signs of both the common cold and seasonal allergies. With allergy season in full swing, you may be wondering if that cold you have may actually be allergies.
Here are a few clues that you may have seasonal allergies.
Your symptoms last more than 5-7 days.
If your symptoms go beyond the typical 5-7 days that a normal cold lasts, this may be a good sign that they may be related to allergies.
Your symptoms stay the same, day after day.
When you have a cold, your symptoms tend to be worse the first few days and then get better after that. Although allergies may feel worse the first couple of days, they tend to stay the same over time without getting better.
Your eyes are itchy or watery.
Typically, the common cold doesn’t lead to itchy or watery eyes. If you are experiencing this symptom, you probably have allergies.
Your mucus is clear or watery.
The common cold most often produces thicker, discolored mucus so if you blow your nose and noticed a yellow-ish mucus, you probably have a cold. Mucus related to allergies is typically clear and watery looking.
Your symptoms only occur in certain times or situations.
Do your symptoms seem to always show up at certain times of the year like spring or fall? Allergies are quite common during the spring and fall seasons, whereas colds are more common in the fall and winter months.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you may need to be tested for allergies. Our expert dermatology practitioners can determine which treatment options are right for you. Make an appointment today!
Also, check out this air purifier that our team recommends for those with seasonal allergies.
