8 Signs That Indicate Your Cold May Actually Be Seasonal Allergies

Health | Did You Know

8 Signs That Indicate Your Cold May Actually Be Seasonal Allergies

Unless you've been officially diagnosed by a medical professional, it can sometimes be hard to differentiate between a cold and an allergy attack.

Both conditions have certain symptoms in common, including sneezing and coughing, but there other tell-tale signs that will help you determine if the "cold" you've been fighting may actually be undiagnosed allergies.

1. Your symptoms last for weeks

Colds and flus tend to last no more than two weeks, so if you notice that your cough and congestion has stuck around longer than usual, then it's time to consult your doctor.

2. Your symptoms occur randomly

Do you ever notice that you start to get certain symptoms, like a runny or blocked nose, only when you're in certain locations or around certain things, like animals, and then they suddenly disappear? Well, that's probably because you've come into contact with an allergen. It is recommended that you observe your environment carefully next time that happens in order to figure out what could be causing the reaction.

3. You get sick around the same time every year

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Many people get sick during cold and flu season, but when you start to experience symptoms in the spring or fall, then you could very well be suffering from allergies. There's often a rise in allergy cases during these times of year because there are more allergens, like pollen, in the air.

5. Your eyes are irritated

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If you don't have an underlying condition that affects your eyes, then it is likely due to allergies that your eyes are itchy, watery, red and sensitive to light.

6. Your throat feels itchy

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Having a sore and swollen throat is normal when you're suffering from a cold or the flu, but an itchy or scratchy throat are signs of an allergic reaction.

7. Swollen facial features

Swelling is a classic symptom of an allergic reaction. In addition to changes to your eyes, you might notice that your lips, tongue, or face appear bigger.  

8. You develop rashes

While some people have recently complained about experiencing rashes while sick with the flu, it's more characteristic to develop them when you're experiencing an allergic reaction.

Have you experienced any of these allergy symptoms?

Blair isn't a bestselling author, but she has a knack for beautiful prose. When she isn't writing for Shared, she enjoys listening to podcasts.