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If you're sneezing, congested and reaching for tissues, you may be wondering: Do I have a cold, or is it allergies?
It's a common question, especially during Indiana's spring and fall allergy seasons. While colds and allergies have several symptoms in common, a few key clues can help you figure out what's causing you to feel miserable.
To narrow down what may be going on:
The sooner you recognize the differences, the sooner you can find the right treatment and start feeling better.
A cold is caused by a virus. It can happen any time of year and it’s contagious, meaning it can spread from person to person.
Seasonal allergies, on the other hand, occur when your immune system overreacts to substances such as pollen, mold or other environmental allergens. Allergies aren't contagious, but they can return year after year during certain seasons.
Use this chart as a quick guide to compare common cold and allergy symptoms. Keep in mind that symptoms can overlap, so consider how long they last, whether they follow a seasonal pattern and whether you may have been exposed to someone who is sick.
Symptom | Cold | Allergies |
| Fever | Sometimes | Rare |
| Body aches | Sometimes | Rare |
| Itchy, watery eyes | Uncommon | Very common |
| Sneezing | Common | Common |
| Runny nose | Common | Common |
| Congestion | Common | Common |
| Cough | Common | Sometimes |
| Sore throat | Common | Sometimes |
| Symptoms follow seasonal patterns | No | Often |
| Contagious | Yes | No |
Because a cold is caused by a virus, symptoms often develop gradually and may include:
Most colds improve within about a week, although a cough may linger longer.
Allergy symptoms often appear when you're exposed to a trigger such as pollen, mold, pet dander or dust mites.
Common allergy symptoms include:
Unlike a cold, allergies typically do not cause fever or body aches.
If your eyes, nose or throat feel itchy, allergies are often the culprit.
"One of the clearest signs of seasonal allergies is itching, especially itchy or watery eyes," says Rashmin Adesara, MD, family medicine physician with Community Physician Network Family Medicine Care – Hillsdale.
"Colds can cause congestion and sneezing, too, but they are more likely to be accompanied by symptoms such as a sore throat, body aches or fever."
When trying to determine whether you have a cold or allergies, consider these questions:
Allergies often return during specific seasons and continue as long as you're exposed to the trigger. A cold usually runs its course and gradually improves over several days.
Getting plenty of rest, staying hydrated and managing symptoms can help you feel more comfortable while your body recovers.
Avoiding known triggers and discussing treatment options with your healthcare provider may help reduce symptoms. Depending on your needs, options may include antihistamines, nasal sprays or other therapies.
Consider talking with your primary care provider if:
A primary care physician can help identify the cause of your symptoms and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.
Can allergies cause a fever?
Seasonal allergies typically do not cause fever. If you have a fever, a viral illness may be more likely.
Are allergies contagious?
No. Allergies are your body's response to allergens and cannot spread from person to person.
How long do allergies last?
Symptoms can last for weeks or even months if you're continually exposed to the allergen causing them.
Could it be something other than a cold or allergies?
Yes. Flu, COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses can sometimes cause symptoms similar to the common cold. If you're concerned about your symptoms, contact your healthcare provider.
Dr. Rashmin Adesara is one of many Community providers who can help you identify the source and recommend the right treatment plan.
Find a Community physician and request an appointment online.
Medically reviewed by Rashmin Adesara, MD, Community Physician Network Family Medicine Care – Hillsdale
About Rashmin Adesara, MD
Rashmin Adesara, MD, is a board-certified family medicine physician with Community Physician Network Family Medicine Care. He cares for patients of all ages and has special interests in diabetes management, weight loss, preventive care, wound care and helping patients improve their overall health.
Dr. Adesara earned his medical degree from B. J. Medical College in Ahmedabad, India, and completed his family medicine residency at Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. Before joining Community Health Network in 2015, he practiced family medicine and wound care in both India and Illinois.
As a family medicine physician, Dr. Adesara enjoys caring for the whole patient and helping individuals better understand their health to prevent future complications. Outside of work, he enjoys football, cricket, music, traveling and spending time with his wife and two children.
Dr. Adesara is accepting new patients and is available for appointments at Community Physician Network Family Medicine Care in Hillsdale.
