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Cold vs Allergies

Is it a Cold or an Allergy?

The following chart can help you compare a cold to seasonal allergy symptoms.  Consult your doctor for a medical exam and treatment recommendations. 

Symptoms

Cold

Airborne Allergy

Cough

Common

Sometimes

General Aches/Pains

Slight

Never

Fatigue/Weakness

Sometimes

Sometimes

Itchy Eyes

Rare or Never

Common

Sneezing

Usual

Usual

Sore Throat

Common

Common

Runny Nose

Common

Common

Stuffy Nose

Common

Common

Fever

Rare

Never

Duration

3 to 14 days

Weeks (for example, 6 weeks for

ragweed or grass pollen seasons)

Prevention

Wash your hands often with soap and water

Avoid close contact with anyone with a cold

Avoid those things that you are allergic to such as pollen, house dust mites, mold, pet dander. 

Complications

Sinus infection

Middle ear infection

Asthma

Sinus infection

Asthma

 

Adopted from U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

National Institutes of Health

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases

November 2008

www.niaid.nih.gov