/assets/images/provider/photos/2825834.jpeg)
Is It a Cold or Winter Allergies? How to Tell the Difference
If sniffling and sneezing are unwanted visitors in your life this season, you’re not alone. Many people experience allergies, colds, or both during the winter.
Because colds and allergies can cause similar symptoms, a proper diagnosis can ensure swift and lasting relief. Understanding differences between colds and allergies can help, too.
At her offices in Valencia, Burbank, and Lancaster, California, Dr. Maricar Cutillar-Garcia provides seasonal allergy care to people of all ages.
Common winter allergies
Specific allergens, such as pollen, are less likely during the cold winter months in the United States. Other allergens, such as dust, pet dander, and mold, however, can be more prevalent throughout the season.
Dust mites and mold often thrive in cold, dark places. Meanwhile, spending more time indoors without good ventilation or open windows can make winter allergies intense.
You can also experience allergy issues on your feet in the winter. Dry air, hot showers or baths, and low humidity can trigger an allergic reaction.
Winter allergy vs. cold symptoms
Cold symptoms stem from a virus that spreads through contact with someone who’s contagious or with airborne droplets when someone with a cold sneezes, coughs, or breathes near you. You can also catch a cold by touching contaminated surfaces, like doorknobs.
Winter allergies involve immune system misfirings that flare up when you're exposed to your allergen.
Winter allergies and common colds can cause several similar symptoms, such as:
- Sneezing
- Stuffiness
- Headaches
- Tiredness
- Watery eyes
Winter allergies are more likely to cause itchy eyes than a cold. A cold more often causes a sore throat or cough.
Other symptoms of an allergy may include red, itchy, or flaky skin. The skin may crack or peel and feel generally uncomfortable.
How to tell the difference between a cold and allergies
While many adults have active cold symptoms for 3-10 days, they can linger on for a couple of weeks. If staying well hydrated and resting helps ease your symptoms, you may be dealing with a cold.
Winter allergy symptoms may carry on for several weeks or even throughout the season. Rest and hydration are still a good idea, but they may not alleviate your symptoms, especially if you’re continually exposed to your allergen. Antihistamines can help.
Some treatments, like nasal rinses, help with colds and allergies.
Still, the best way to determine what you’re dealing with is through an exam. Dr. Cutillar-Garcia may recommend allergy testing if she suspects you’re allergic to an airborne allergen. She offers skin prick, skin patch, and blood (IgE) tests.
Winter allergy treatment
Seasonal allergy treatment typically involves avoiding your allergen and improving air flow and hygiene habits. Wearing an N95 mask when you may be exposed to the allergen and showering afterwards can help, too. A dehumidifier can keep excess moisture out of the air.
Beyond antihistamines and nasal sprays, medical treatments may include an allergy shot plan or, if you have asthma, a biologic medication. Itchy skin may require a special moisturizer, skin exfoliation, and bathing in cooler water.
To learn more about cold vs. allergy symptoms or get started with personalized allergy care, call our office or request an appointment through our website today.