3 ways to tell if you have a cold or allergies

When seasons change, pollen counts do too. That brings annoying allergy flare ups.

In the spring, allergies typically begin flaring up in February, though depending on where you live, allergies can start as early as January, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Tree pollination followed by grass pollination is the usual source of allergies.

Mild winters can cause plants to pollinate early, and a wet rainy spring can also cause rapid plant growth and an increase in mold, resulting in allergy symptoms that last into the fall.

When you are miserable with a runny nose, distinguishing between a cold and allergy can be confusing.

“Unlike colds, allergies aren't contagious,” explains Casey Nekl, M.D., an ear, nose and throat specialist at Sentara ENT Specialists in Elizabeth City, N.C. “Colds are caused by a virus. Allergies are caused by our immune system overreacting to a harmless particle.”

Common allergy symptoms include:

• Nasal congestion
• Sinus pressure
• Runny nose
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Scratchy throat 
• Cough
• Swollen, bluish-colored skin beneath the eyes

Those with colds can experience many of these symptoms along with headaches, body aches and a fever.

3 Questions to ask

With all the similarities in symptoms, how can you tell the difference between allergies and a cold? Ask these three questions, Dr. Nekl says.

When did symptoms start?

Cold symptoms take a few days to appear, while allergy symptoms may begin immediately after exposure.

What time of year do the symptoms happen and do they occur each year around the same time?

Most colds occur in the winter, while allergy symptoms can appear any time of the year that the allergen is available.

How long do the symptoms last?

Cold symptoms usually last three days to two weeks while allergy symptoms can last for days to months if the allergen remains in contact with the individual.

If a cold persists, it could eventually lead to a sinus infection when stagnant mucous stays in the sinuses, providing a breeding ground for bacteria.

If allergies are the root of the problem, take note what time of year they started and take a pre-emptive approach the next year if they are seasonal due to pollen.

“Over-the-counter allergy meds are best started prior to the allergy appearance,” Dr. Nekl says. “Two weeks is a good time frame.”