Sneezing, congestion, a runny nose, and watery eyes can make it difficult to know whether you're dealing with seasonal allergies or a summer cold. While many symptoms overlap, these conditions have different causes and often require different treatment approaches.
Understanding the differences can help you find relief sooner and determine when it's time to see a healthcare provider.
Is It Allergies or a Cold?
One of the biggest clues is the cause of your symptoms.
Summer Allergies
Summer allergies, also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis or hay fever, occur when the immune system overreacts to allergens in the environment.
Common summer allergy triggers include:
- Grass pollen
- Tree pollen
- Weed pollen
- Outdoor mold spores
- Pet dander
Allergy symptoms can continue for weeks or even months if exposure to the allergen continues.
Summer Cold
A summer cold is caused by a virus, most commonly enteroviruses that circulate during warmer months.
Unlike allergies, colds are contagious and can spread through close contact with infected individuals.
Most colds improve within 7 to 10 days.
Allergy Symptoms vs. Cold Symptoms
Although allergies and colds share several symptoms, there are important differences.
Signs You're More Likely Dealing With Allergies
Your symptoms may be caused by allergies if you notice:
- Itchy eyes
- Itchy nose or throat
- Frequent sneezing fits
- Symptoms that worsen outdoors
- Symptoms that occur around pollen, grass, or pets
- Symptoms that persist for several weeks
Unlike a cold, allergies do not cause a fever.
Signs You're More Likely Dealing With a Cold
A cold may be more likely if you experience:
- Body aches
- Fever
- Significant fatigue
- Sore throat
- Symptoms that improve within about 10 days
- Recent exposure to someone who was sick
Colds often progress over several days before gradually improving.
Can You Have Both Allergies and a Cold?
Yes.
Seasonal allergies and viral infections can occur at the same time. In fact, ongoing nasal inflammation caused by allergies may make some people more susceptible to respiratory infections.
If symptoms seem unusually severe or prolonged, more than one condition could be contributing.
How Are Summer Allergies Treated?
Treatment may include:
- Antihistamines
- Nasal corticosteroid sprays
- Saline nasal rinses
- Avoiding known allergens
- Using HEPA air filtration indoors
Your healthcare provider can recommend the most appropriate treatment based on your symptoms.
How Are Summer Colds Treated?
Most viral colds improve with supportive care.
Helpful measures include:
- Rest
- Hydration
- Saline nasal sprays
- Over-the-counter medications when appropriate
- Limiting contact with others while sick
Antibiotics do not treat viral colds.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Schedule a medical evaluation if:
- Symptoms last longer than 10 days
- Symptoms continue to worsen
- You develop a fever
- Breathing becomes difficult
- Symptoms repeatedly return
- Over-the-counter treatments are not helping
A healthcare provider can determine whether allergies, a viral illness, sinusitis, or another condition may be responsible.
Find Relief From Allergy and Cold Symptoms
Whether you're dealing with seasonal allergies, a summer cold, or recurring sinus symptoms, getting the right diagnosis can help you feel better faster.
The primary care providers at BASS Medical Group can evaluate your symptoms, recommend treatment options, and help identify potential allergy triggers or underlying conditions.
Schedule an appointment with a BASS Medical Group provider if allergy or cold symptoms are interfering with your daily activities.
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