Cold and allergies are two symptoms that at first glance have almost identical symptoms. In each of these cases these are symptoms that make it difficult for us to function, so it is worthwhile to find out what we are dealing with in order to properly eliminate them.
What we notice most often, both in the case of a cold and allergy, is an emerging rhinitis. Although it does not cause that we need to stay in bed or even make an appointment to see a doctor, it does make our lives miserable. But the very period of the occurrence of rhinitis may be a hint whether we are dealing with a simple cold or allergy. The latter is most often known in spring and summer, while the cold usually affects us in winter.
The length of symptoms is also significant, because an allergic rhinitis actually lasts as long as we are in contact with an allergen that sensitizes us. In some cases, it can even be a whole year. The usual cold, however, disappears after a maximum of 14 days.
Another thing that distinguishes these two ailments is the color of the nasal discharge. If you have an allergy, it will be very light or even colourless, and if you have a cold, it will be yellowish.
Also, symptoms accompanying these ailments may be a clue to what we are dealing with. If you have headaches and fever, you are more likely to have a cold. On the other hand, itching and tearing of the eyes is a symptom that indicates that we have an allergy. Therefore, if your rhinitis persists for a longer period of time, it is advisable to see a doctor to confirm or rule out allergies and treat them properly.