Is it allergies or a cold?
The weather is getting warmer. Spring is in bloom. The symptoms start: runny nose, congestion, sneezing, watery eyes and scratchy throat. So what do you have – nasal allergies or a cold?
If your symptoms last for more than two weeks, you may very well have nasal allergies. Here are some facts you should know:
Allergies
Allergy symptoms may come all at once. However, you will not have the muscle aches or fever you may get with a cold or flu. If you have respiratory allergies, your symptoms may include:
- Itchy, watery and sometimes red eyes
- Runny nose, usually with a clear or thin discharge
- Frequent sneezing
- Congestion of the nose
- Itchy ears or throat
- Cough, though less often than with a cold
Cold
Cold symptoms usually appear one at a time, and can linger for up to two weeks. If you have a cold (viral upper respiratory infection), your symptoms may include:
- Slight fever
- Mild muscle aches and/or headache
- Runny nose with a light yellow or thick discharge
- Congestion of the nose and sinuses
- Sneezing, though less often than with allergies
- Sore throat
- Cough