Seasonal Allergies Vs. Cold/Flu Symptoms
With the fall season in full swing, many Americans are preparing for the upcoming cold and flu season. While it’s reasonable to assume that your sudden onset of sneezing and stuffy nose symptoms are simply signs that you are sick with the common cold or the flu, they could also be caused by seasonal allergies. Read on to learn more about the key differences so you can determine the best course of action for treating your symptoms.
Seasonal Allergy Symptoms
Seasonal allergies occur when your immune system mistakenly identifies harmless substances as threats. Common allergy triggers include pollen, dust mites and mold. When you come into contact with an allergen, your immune system responds by releasing histamine and other chemicals to combat the substance, which results in symptoms such as:
- Sneezing: Often repetitive and forceful.
- Runny or stuffy nose: Clear, watery discharge.
- Itchy eyes, nose and throat: Can be persistent and irritating.
- Watery eyes: May also be red and swollen in some cases.
Common Cold/Flu Symptoms
The common cold and flu are caused by viruses that infect your respiratory system. While they share several overlapping symptoms with allergies like sneezing and runny/stuffy nose, they also present additional symptoms not found in patients experiencing seasonal allergies. These additional symptoms include:
- Cough: Can be dry or productive.
- Sore throat: Often scratchy or painful.
- Fatigue: Can be quite noticeable, especially with the flu.
- Headache: Can range from mild to severe.
- Fever: Frequently reported with the flu, but can occur with the common cold.
- Muscle aches: More prominent with the flu.
How To Distinguish Between Seasonal Allergies Vs. Common Cold Or Flu
To determine whether your symptoms are the result of seasonal allergies, consider these key factors and distinguishing symptoms:
- Duration of symptoms: Seasonal allergies can last for weeks or even months, while cold and flu symptoms typically resolve within seven to 10 days.
- Onset of symptoms: Seasonal allergy symptoms often appear shortly after exposure to an allergen, while cold and flu symptoms tend to develop gradually (typically within one to three days).
- Itchy eyes, nose and throat: More common in those experiencing seasonal allergies.
- Fever and body aches: These symptoms are more indicative of a cold or flu.
Seeking Urgent Care to Mitigate Symptoms
If you have symptoms that persist for more than 10 days or experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing or high fever, seek urgent care as soon as possible. With 50+ locations open daily, Midwest Express Clinic’s healthcare providers can give you a diagnosis and recommend treatment.
While OTC medications can provide relief for seasonal allergies and cold and flu symptoms, it’s important to select the right medication based on your condition. If you have seasonal allergies, taking preventive measures such as using air purifiers and keeping windows closed can help minimize your allergy symptoms. To stay protected against the flu virus, it’s strongly recommended to get an annual flu shot, as these vaccines are the most effective method of preventing the virus from spreading and reducing the severity of flu symptoms in those that are infected.
The Care You Need at Midwest Express Clinic
By understanding the differences between seasonal allergy and cold or flu symptoms, you can make informed decisions about how to best treat your symptoms. To consult a provider about your seasonal allergy or cold/flu symptoms, visit Midwest Express Clinic today. Find urgent care near you at midwestexpressclinic.com/locations.
