How Do Nasal Allergies Differ from Common Colds?
Nasal allergies and common colds can share similar symptoms, such as a runny nose, sneezing, and nasal congestion, but there are key differences between the two conditions. One of the main differences is the cause. Nasal allergies are triggered by an immune response to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. In contrast, the common cold is caused by a viral infection, typically from rhinovirus. While allergies can occur year-round or seasonally depending on the allergens, colds are generally limited to specific seasons, especially in the colder months.
Another difference is the duration and nature of symptoms. Allergy symptoms can last as long as there is exposure to allergens, often for weeks or months, and may persist until treatment or avoidance strategies are implemented. On the other hand, cold symptoms typically resolve within 7-10 days, as the body clears the viral infection. In addition, allergies are not accompanied by fever or body aches, which are common in colds. Recognizing these differences is important for effective management and treatment, as the approach for treating allergies differs from that for a viral infection like a cold.
