Allergy Cold vs Common Cold: Whats the Difference?

When you’re not feeling your best, it’s often hard to figure out whether you’re experiencing allergies or the common cold. While they share similar symptoms, knowing how to tell them apart is key to finding the right relief.

Do I Have a Head Cold or Allergies

 

What Sets Allergies and the Common Cold Apart?

Causes

• Allergies: Caused by an immune system reaction to allergens - the most common being dust mites but also could include pollen, pet dander and food
• Common Cold / flu: Caused by viruses, especially rhinoviruses, and spread through droplets or contact with infected surfaces.

Duration

• Allergies: Symptoms last as long as you’re exposed to the allergen. Without treatment, they can persist for weeks or even longer.
• Common Cold / flu : Symptoms typically improve within 7 to 10 days as the body clears the virus.

Comparing Symptoms: Common Cold vs Allergies

Though both conditions involve sneezing, nasal congestion, and a runny nose, there are notable differences.

Allergy Symptoms vs Common Cold Symptoms

• Allergies:
  • Frequent sneezing
  • Clear, watery nasal discharge
  • Itchy nose, eyes, or throat
  • Red, watery eyes
  • Symptoms often start immediately after exposure to allergens and may follow seasonal patterns.
  • Head Ache
• Common Cold:
  • Stuffy or runny nose with thicker, discolored mucus
  • Sore throat
  • Mild cough
  • Fatigue or slight body aches
  • Symptoms usually develop gradually and may include a mild fever.

Best Way To Get Rid of Home Allergens

At dust mite treatment we sell the best products to protect you from the most common home allergen dust mites as wellas mold and pollen. you can buy our recommended bed protector set here

 

 

Different symptoms between Common cold and Allergies and Flu

Feature	Allergies	Common Cold	Flu
Cause	Immune reaction to allergens	Viral infection	Influenza virus
Onset	Sudden, after allergen exposure	Gradual	Sudden
Duration	Weeks or longer if untreated	7-10 days	1-2 weeks
Fever	No	Rare, mild	High, sudden
Sneezing	Frequent	Occasional	Sometimes
Nasal Discharge	Clear, watery	Thick, discolored	Sometimes
Body Aches	Rare	Mild	Severe
Fatigue	Rare	Mild	Common, severe
Itchy Eyes/Throat	Common	Rare	Rare
Contagious	No	Yes	Yes

 

How to Find Relief

• Allergies:
  • Avoid allergens where possible
  • For dust mites read our 6 Step Guide to get rid of them
  • Use antihistamines to ease sneezing and itching
  • Nasal sprays and decongestants can help reduce congestion
  • Consider allergy shots for long-term management
• Common Cold:
  • Rest and drink plenty of fluids
  • Over-the-counter remedies like decongestants or pain relievers can help
  • Soothe a sore throat with lozenges or warm drinks
  • Antibiotics won’t help, as colds are caused by viruses
• Flu:
  • Rest and hydration are essential
  • Antiviral medications like oseltamivir (Tamiflu) may help if taken early
  • Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can reduce fever and body aches
  • Seek medical attention for severe symptoms, especially in high-risk individuals