Is It Allergies, A Cold, Or Something Else?

A 55-year-old male presents to our clinic after having symptoms of sneezing, scratchy throat, and watery eyes for two days. He did a home test for COVID-19, which was negative. At the clinic, he was tested for flu and strep, which were both negative. He seemed to develop the same symptoms each year around the end of March or the beginning of April. Although, at times, the symptoms can be hard to tell apart, this patient most likely was suffering from seasonal allergies.

Spring has arrived, and with it come flower buds, blossoming trees, and, unfortunately, higher pollen counts. You may develop sneezing symptoms, runny or stuffy nose, or itchy and watery eyes.

You might wonder if it is a cold, flu, or another virus.

How can you distinguish between allergies and illness?

Allergy symptoms last as long as the allergen that has triggered them is present.

• Antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal steroids can help relieve the symptoms.

• See your healthcare provider for a referral to an allergist to get testing.

Have you been exposed to someone with the same symptoms? Then, most likely, they shared their germs with you, and you have a cold or other virus.

• Symptoms of sneezing, fever, headache, fatigue, and general aches and pains are likely cold or flu.

• Cold symptoms can last up to two weeks, and the flu usually lasts one to two weeks.

• Acetaminophen or ibuprofen is recommended to reduce fever and general aches.

Practice Pearls:

• See your healthcare provider if you develop a high fever or chest congestion that leads to shortness of breath or persistent cough.

• Be careful of drug overlap when taking multiple over-the-counter medications to treat the symptoms you may be experiencing.

• Use good hand washing and minimize time around someone coughing or sneezing.

• Be sure to stay current on all vaccines, including flu and Covid-19.

• Remember, antibiotic treatment is unnecessary unless an infection is confirmed.