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Cold vs. Allergy: How Do I Know the Difference?

Symptoms

Allergy

Cold

Runny Nose

often

often

Sneezing

often

sometimes

Itchy eyes

often

rarely

Fever

never

often

Aches and pains

never

sometimes

Headache

sometimes

often

Cough

sometimes

often

Dizziness

sometimes

often

Hoarseness

sometimes

often

Recur at a certain time of year

often

rarely

Need for antibiotics

no

no

Warning time

symptoms occur after exposure to allergen

gets worse over several days

How long does it last

As long as your child is exposed to the allergen

usually 7 to 10 days

Online Source: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases http://www3.niaid.nih.gov/topics/allergicDiseases/
Online Source: American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology http://www.aaaai.org/springallergy/2003/reallyanallergy.stm
Online Medical Reviewer: Jenkins, Lee
Online Medical Reviewer: Pierce-Smith, Daphne RN, MSN, CCRC, FNP
Date Last Reviewed: 9/20/2009
Date Last Modified: 12/3/2008