A Cold or Winter Allergies? Here’s How to Know

Winter is here, and with it comes the familiar sniffles and sneezes. But are those symptoms from a cold or winter allergies? Although they can feel similar, colds and allergies have distinct causes and treatments. Understanding the difference can help you find relief faster.

But first, let’s debunk the most common misconceptions about colds and winter allergies:

Myth #1: All colds involve a fever.

Not true. Many colds come without a fever.

Myth #2: You can’t have allergies in winter.

False! Winter allergies are common and caused by indoor allergens, not outdoor pollen.

Myth #3: Cold weather directly causes colds.

Not so. Colds are caused by viruses. That said, cold weather means spending more time indoors in closer proximity to others, increasing the risk of spreading germs.

Similar Symptoms, Different Causes

Colds and winter allergies have overlapping symptoms but contrasting causes. The telltale signs of a cold are runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, fatigue and body aches, and occasionally, a low-grade fever. Winter allergy symptoms include sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, nasal congestion, runny nose with clear discharge, and itchy throat or ears.

Their causes are totally different. Colds are causes by viruses such as the rhinovirus, which spread through respiratory droplets or direct contact with contaminated surfaces. Winter allergies, on the other hand, result from exposure to indoor allergens including dust mites, mold spores, pet dander and pollen in warmer climates where plants bloom year-round.
Determining the cause of your symptoms can be confusing but subtle differences can help you recognize what’s behind your discomfort:

• Duration: Colds usually last 7 to 10 days and resolve on their own. Allergies, on the other hand, persist as long as there’s exposure to allergens.
• Fever: A mild fever is sometimes present with a cold but absent with allergies.
• Timing: Colds happen year-round but occur most often during flu season and can spread through contact with sick individuals. The most common causes of indoor allergies in the winter are exposure to allergens like dust mites, mold or pet dander.

Get to the Bottom of It

If you’re unsure whether you’re sick or have allergies, the following can help — and give you key information to share with an allergy specialist:

• Monitor the duration of symptoms. Persistent symptoms might indicate allergies.
• Note specific triggers, such as pet contact or cleaning activities.
• Consult a doctor if symptoms linger or worsen. Allergy testing can confirm sensitivity to common triggers.

Stay Ahead of Colds and Allergies

Throughout the winter, you can use these tried-and-true methods to lessen the chance of catching a cold or triggering an allergy flare-up. If you do feel under the weather, there are at-home remedies that can offer relief. Of course, it is critical to consult with a healthcare professional if symptoms are serious or linger for too long.

Colds

• Prevention: Wash hands frequently, avoid close contact with people who are sick, and boost your immune system with a balanced diet and adequate sleep.
• Treatments: Rest and stay hydrated, use over-the-counter decongestants and pain relievers, and soothe a sore throat with warm teas or lozenges.

Allergies

• Prevention: Clean regularly to reduce dust and pet dander, wash bedding weekly in hot water, use high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters in vacuums and air purifiers, and keep pets out of bedrooms and off furniture.
• Treatments: Take antihistamines to reduce symptoms like sneezing and itching, use nasal corticosteroid sprays to relieve congestion, minimize allergen exposure by keeping your home clean and well-ventilated, and consider air purifiers to reduce indoor allergens.

Know Before You Go

Understanding the difference between a cold and winter allergies can save you time and discomfort. While colds are short-lived and contagious, allergies can persist and require a different approach to treatment. If you’re ever in doubt, consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action. Stay warm, stay informed and breathe easy this winter season!

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If you suffer from allergies but don’t know the source, our allergy specialists perform precision testing to determine whether a particular allergen is at play and provide a customized treatment plan.

To schedule an appointment with one of our allergy specialists, book online or call (844) 760-3380.