Quick Comparison
| Symptom | Cold | Allergies |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 7-10 days | Weeks to months (while exposed to allergen) |
| Onset | Gradual (1-3 days) | Immediate (upon exposure) |
| Fever | Sometimes | Never |
| Aches | Common | Rare |
| Itchy Eyes | Rare | Very common |
| Sneezing | Common | Very common |
| Runny Nose | Common (thick, yellow/green) | Common (clear, watery) |
Treatment Differences
For a Cold
- •Decongestants (Sudafed, Otrivin)
- •Pain relievers (Paracetamol, Ibuprofen)
- •Rest and fluids
- •Usually resolves on its own
For Allergies
- •Antihistamines (Zyrtec, Telfast, Claratyne)
- •Nasal sprays (Nasonex, Beconase)
- •Avoid allergens when possible
- •May need long-term management
Recommended Product
Telfast Hayfever Allergy Relief Antihistamine
Relief for hayfever and allergy symptoms including sneezing, itchy eyes, and runny or blocked nose.
💡Pro Tip
If symptoms last more than 10 days without improvement, it's more likely allergies. If you have a fever or body aches, it's more likely a cold or flu.