As the weather changes and flu season sets in, many people wonder whether their symptoms signal a cold or seasonal allergies. In a recent segment on CNN, Dr. Sanjay Gupta breaks down the key differences between these two common conditions, offering insights to better manage symptoms.
Allergies and colds share overlapping symptoms like sneezing, congestion, and a runny nose, making it difficult to differentiate between them. However, Dr. Gupta notes some telltale signs.
Allergies typically come with itching — especially in the eyes, nose, or throat — and are less likely to cause fever or body aches. A cold, on the other hand, often includes fatigue, a sore throat, and low-grade fever, which are absent in most allergy cases.
Another key difference is duration.
Allergies can persist for weeks or even months as long as the allergen — such as pollen, mold, or dust — remains present. Colds, in contrast, usually resolve within a week to 10 days. Dr. Gupta advises that if your symptoms last longer than two weeks or follow a recurring pattern, allergies are likely to be the culprit.
Timing also plays a role. Allergy symptoms often intensify during specific seasons or environments, such as during pollen-heavy spring days or exposure to dust in closed spaces. In contrast, cold viruses are more common during the cooler months, with symptoms appearing a few days after exposure to an infected individual.
Treatment approaches vary between allergies and colds, making accurate identification essential. Dr. Gupta recommends antihistamines, nasal sprays, or allergy shots to manage allergy symptoms, while colds may benefit from rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications for congestion and pain relief.
Additionally, Dr. Gupta encourages people to monitor other signs. For example, a lingering dry cough or post-nasal drip could indicate allergies, whereas yellow or green nasal discharge might point to a viral infection. He also suggests seeing a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen over time to rule out more serious conditions, such as a sinus infection.
Understanding these differences can help patients avoid unnecessary medications and manage their symptoms more effectively. As Dr. Gupta reminds viewers, identifying whether you’re dealing with allergies or a cold can lead to quicker relief and prevent unnecessary worry.
Assistance from artificial intelligence was used in the creation of this report.