Is it Nasal Allergies or a Cold?

Nasal allergies and colds share many of the same symptoms, so it can be difficult to tell them apart.

But colds are caused by viruses, and nasal allergy symptoms are caused by a response to allergens, so how you go about treating them is very different.

Colds can last up to 2 weeks or so, and are contagious—they can be spread from one person to another. Nasal allergy symptoms usually last longer, and cannot be spread.

This chart, from the National Institutes of Health, shows some key differences between nasal allergies and colds. Your health care provider can help you determine whether your symptoms are being caused by nasal allergies or a cold, and recommend the best way to treat them.

Symptoms Colds Nasal Allergies
General Aches, Pains Slight Never
Sneezing Usual Usual
Runny Nose Common Common
Stuffy Nose Common Common
Fever Rare Never
Duration 3 to 14 Days Weeks
Common Treatments OTC cold remedies
Decongestants
Non-steroidal acetaminophen medicines		 Antihistamines
Nasal steroids
Decongestants
Ways to Control Wash hands often
Avoid contact with anyone with a cold		 Avoid things you are allergic to, such as pollen, dust mites, mold, pet dander, cockroaches
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