Is It Cold or Is It Seasonal Allergies?

As the colder months settle in, many people find themselves battling symptoms like a runny nose, congestion, and sore throats. But is it a cold, or could it be seasonal allergies? Although the symptoms may overlap, the causes, treatments, and duration can differ significantly. Understanding the key differences between colds and seasonal allergies is essential for managing your health through the Fall and Winter months.

What’s the Difference Between a Cold and Seasonal Allergies?

Both colds and allergies share symptoms like nasal congestion, sneezing, and coughing. However, the causes behind these conditions are very different:

1. Colds:

• Cause: Colds are caused by viral infections, typically rhinoviruses, which spread easily from person-to-person. You catch a cold when you come into contact with an infected person or contaminated surfaces like door knobs, bathroom faucets, drinking fountains, etc.

• Contagiousness: Colds ARE contagious and can spread through droplets from coughing, sneezing, or touching contaminated surfaces.

2. Seasonal Allergies:

• Cause: Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, are triggered by allergens like pollen from trees, grasses, or weeds, or by mold spores. These allergens are abundant in the Fall, especially in areas where plants are releasing pollen or where mold is present from fallen leaves or other discrete areas you are exposed to where mold spores are released.

• Contagiousness: Allergies are NOT contagious. They’re typically your body's response to allergens that trigger your immune system, not an infection.

While both colds and seasonal allergies present similarly, understanding the differences can help you manage your health effectively during the cold season. If you're unsure whether you have a cold or allergies or it is just lingering around, it is always a good idea to book an appointment with Dr. Castillo for a more accurate diagnosis so she can tailor your treatment plan and get you feeling better faster.