Is It Your Seasonal Allergies or the Common Cold? Here's the Difference

Now that the warm weather looks as if it's planning to stay (we can only hope), allergy season will begin affecting millions if it hasn't already. It's important to keep in mind the differences between seasonal allergies and the common cold.

We've all been around someone who spent the entire day coughing and sneezing, only to blame it on their allergies--even when allergy season has yet to be in full force or they're actually sick. So if you want to be the whistleblower for those inconsiderate beings who insist on encroaching on your personal space as they uncontrollably cough and sneeze, here's what you need to know.

Both seasonal allergies and the common cold exhibit similar symptoms, such as sneezing, a runny nose, and congestion, as well as coughing and a sore throat for those suffering from a post-nasal drip - which can be present in those with allergies or a cold. So yes, it's sometimes difficult to detect the difference, but there are ways to do so either immediately or over time.

First, consider the time of year. Allergies affect people when pollen is blowing in the wind, typically during the spring and summer (and parts of autumn). Additionally, colds usually occur at the end of autumn and throughout winter, so if someone is telling you they have allergies in December, there's your red flag right there. The duration of the symptoms is also a good indicator. Allergies can last weeks, or however long the individual is exposed to pollen, whereas colds last up to two weeks maximum.

One's nasal discharge also offers clues about the condition. A cold or sinus infection is characterized by green or yellow mucus compared to a clear color that seasonal allergies produce. However, seasonal allergies can eventually turn into sinus infections if severe for a prolonged period of time, which would then reveal yellow mucus.

And lastly, seasonal allergies produce a lot of itching in those who suffer from them. Itching and redness of the eyes is most common as well as frequent itchiness of the nose. Dr. Rima Rachid, the director of allergy and immunotherapy at Boston Children's Hospital, calls it the "allergic salute" - when someone pushes their nose up with the palm of their hand to relieve the itching caused by the pollen or other substances.

Now that you're armed with all the information needed, you can try to stay away from those who are sick and remain healthy year round.