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Is It a Cold or Just Allergies? Here’s How to Know

From runny noses to itchy eyes, here's how to tell what’s behind your symptoms and when to seek help.

Author

Audrey Sawyer
May 28, 2025

A runny nose, sneezing, scratchy throat whether it’s a cold or allergies, the symptoms can leave you feeling less than your best. But even though they often look the same on the surface, colds and allergies have different causes, treatments, and timelines. So how do you tell them apart when your nose won’t stop running?

Here’s how to decode your symptoms and figure out whether you’re fighting off a virus or reacting to an allergen.

Colds and Allergies: What’s the Difference?

The biggest distinction lies in the cause:

  • Colds are caused by viruses, typically spread through respiratory droplets.

  • Allergies, on the other hand, are immune responses triggered by allergens like pollen, pet dander, or dust mites.

While both can leave you feeling stuffy and sneezy, how they develop, how long they last, and what makes them better are totally different stories.

Colds vs. Allergies: Key Differences

Here’s a quick comparison to help you spot the difference:

Symptom

Common Cold

Allergies

Duration

7–10 days

Weeks to months

Mucus

Thick, yellow or green

Clear and watery

Itchy eyes or throat

Rare

Common

Fever

Sometimes (low grade)

Rare

Body aches

Occasionally

Unlikely

Sneezing

Common

Common

Fatigue

Mild to moderate

Mild

Seasonal pattern

More common in fall/winter

Common in spring/summer

Contagious?

Yes

No

If your symptoms pop up like clockwork every spring or after visiting a friend’s cat, chances are they’re allergy-related. But if you’re suddenly fatigued and coughing, a cold may be to blame.

How to Prevent a Cold (and Other Viruses)

Colds may be mild, but they’re still contagious. Here’s how to reduce your chances of catching or spreading one:

  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water

  • Disinfect commonly touched surfaces like phones, doorknobs, and countertops

  • Wear a mask if you're under the weather or in a crowded space

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick

  • Keep your immune system strong with sleep, hydration, and balanced nutrition

Managing Allergy Season Like a Pro

Allergies can linger for months, but a few proactive steps can minimize your exposure and help keep symptoms under control:

  • Check local pollen counts before heading outdoors

  • Shower and change clothes after spending time outside

  • Keep windows closed on dry, breezy days when pollen is high

  • Use an air purifier indoors to trap allergens

  • Consider OTC remedies like nonsedating antihistamines or nasal sprays

When to See a Doctor

Whether it’s a persistent cold or relentless allergies, sometimes you need a little extra help. Talk to your healthcare provider if:

  • You have a fever that lasts more than a couple of days

  • Cold symptoms haven’t improved after 10 days

  • Allergy symptoms interfere with sleep or daily activities

  • You’re unsure what’s causing your symptoms

And if your symptoms arise during a COVID-19 outbreak or exposure, always test and isolate as recommended, since COVID shares symptoms with both colds and allergies.

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