Can You Tell The Difference Between Allergies & a Common Cold?
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JACKSON, Tenn. — Runny nose, congestion in the head and sneezing: these are the symptoms of allergies and the common cold, and they can sometimes intertwine. Experts at the Regional Clinic in Jackson say even though antihistamines are used to treat both, special medications are needed for allergies. “We use inhaled nasal steroids such as Fluticasone, Triamcinolone…the newest one that is over the counter now is called nasal core,” Fred Sesti said, a Nurse Practitioner for the Regional Clinic. Medical experts say there’s not much of a difference when it comes to common cold and allergy symptoms, but the key factor is knowing how long you’ve been coughing or sneezing. “The common cold typically lasts for a few days. [Usually] like 3-14 days sometimes,” Sesti said. “Allergy symptoms far as allergic rhinitis typically last weeks sometimes months.” Regardless of the similar symptoms, Sesti adds that colds and allergies are two totally different sicknesses. Colds, Sesti says, come from viruses. “Many different types that cause the common cold, whereas allergies are caused from environmental stimulants such as tree pollen, grass pollen,” Sesti added. According to Sesti, children also experience the same symptoms as adults, but children are more prone to fever when they suffer from allergies. Sesti says there are preventive measures for patients with bad allergies. He says February is the best time to start taking allergy medicine, to help build up your resistance when symptoms get really bad in April. So if you haven’t started taking medicine already, start now.
