The Difference Between Seasonal Allergies & a Cold

Seasonal allergies and the common cold have many similar symptoms, including coughing, sneezing and fatigue. Being able to tell the difference will ensure that you get the proper treatment for your symptoms.

Causes

• Seasonal allergies are caused by the immune system's overreaction to substances in the air, such as pollen and mold spores. Colds, on the other hand, are caused by viruses, such as rhinovirus.

Common Symptoms

• Both colds and seasonal allergies can cause sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, fatigue and ear congestion.

Cold Symptoms

• The common cold can also cause fever, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, green or yellow nasal discharge and body aches.

Allergy Symptoms

• Allergies often cause clear nasal discharge, itchy or scratchy throat, and itchy, watery eyes.

Other Signs

• Colds are contagious, while allergies are often hereditary. Seasonal allergy may last several months, while colds are gone in a week or two. Colds are most common in the winter, while seasonal allergies are most common during spring and fall, when the weather is changing and the pollen count is high.