Fall Allergies vs. a Cold: How to Tell the Difference
As the weather starts to cool down and fall arrives in New Jersey, many people begin experiencing sneezing, congestion, coughing, and a runny nose. But how do you know whether your symptoms are caused by fall allergies or a common cold?
Although allergies and colds can cause similar symptoms, there are some important differences. Understanding those differences can help you determine when you may need treatment or an evaluation at an urgent care.
What Causes Fall Allergies?
Fall allergies are often triggered by seasonal allergens that become more common during the autumn months. Ragweed pollen is one of the most common fall allergens, and mold spores can also become a problem as leaves begin to fall and accumulate outdoors.
Common fall allergy symptoms include:
- Sneezing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Itchy nose or throat
- Postnasal drip
- Coughing
- Sinus pressure
Allergy symptoms can continue for weeks or even throughout the fall allergy season, particularly when you are repeatedly exposed to the allergen causing your symptoms.
What Causes a Cold?
A cold is caused by a viral infection. Colds are common throughout the year but can become especially noticeable during the fall as children return to school, people spend more time indoors, and respiratory viruses circulate among families and communities.
Common cold symptoms include:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Fatigue
- Mild body aches
- Fever in some cases
Unlike seasonal allergies, a cold generally develops over a period of several days and eventually resolves as your body fights off the infection.
Fall Allergies vs. a Cold: Key Differences
One of the easiest ways to distinguish allergies from a cold is to look at the type and duration of your symptoms.
- Itchy eyes: Itchy, watery eyes are much more commonly associated with allergies.
- Fever: A fever can occur with an infection but is not typically caused by seasonal allergies.
- Body aches: Mild body aches and fatigue can occur with viral illnesses and are less typical of seasonal allergies.
- How long symptoms last: Allergy symptoms can persist as long as you are exposed to the allergen, while a common cold generally improves over time.
- Seasonal pattern: If symptoms consistently appear during a particular season and return year after year, allergies may be contributing.
Can Allergies Cause a Cough?
Yes. Fall allergies can cause coughing, particularly when postnasal drip irritates the throat. However, a cough can also be associated with viral respiratory infections and other conditions.
If your cough is persistent, worsening, or accompanied by concerning symptoms, an evaluation can help determine what may be causing it.
When Should You Visit Urgent Care?
Sometimes it can be difficult to determine whether your symptoms are caused by allergies, a cold, or another respiratory illness. An evaluation may be appropriate when symptoms are severe, persistent, worsening, or interfering with your daily activities.
You should also consider seeking medical attention if you have difficulty breathing, significant chest discomfort, dehydration, or other concerning symptoms.
At Family First Urgent Care, our providers evaluate a wide range of common illnesses and respiratory symptoms for patients of all ages. Our urgent care centers are open 7 days a week, and walk-ins are welcome, so an appointment is not required.
Rapid Testing for Common Fall Illnesses
Cold-like symptoms can sometimes overlap with other respiratory infections. Depending on your symptoms and clinical evaluation, testing may be recommended.
Family First Urgent Care offers rapid testing for illnesses including flu, COVID-19, and strep throat at our urgent care locations.
Getting evaluated and tested can help you better understand what may be causing your symptoms and determine the appropriate next steps.
Get Evaluated for Fall Illnesses at Family First Urgent Care
Whether you're dealing with seasonal allergies, a sore throat, congestion, coughing, or symptoms of a respiratory infection, Family First Urgent Care is here when you need convenient medical care.
With 5 urgent care locations in New Jersey, Family First Urgent Care provides walk-in care for children and adults, with evening and weekend availability.
If you're unsure whether your symptoms are allergies or an illness, visit Family First Urgent Care for an evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if I have fall allergies or a cold?
Itchy, watery eyes and repeated sneezing are more common with allergies, while fever, body aches, and a sore throat are more commonly associated with viral infections.
Can seasonal allergies cause a sore throat?
Yes. Postnasal drip caused by allergies can irritate the throat and contribute to a sore or scratchy throat.
Does Family First Urgent Care treat colds?
Family First Urgent Care evaluates and treats many common illnesses and symptoms, including respiratory illnesses, sore throats, coughs, and other conditions that may require medical evaluation.
Does Family First Urgent Care offer flu, COVID-19, and strep testing?
Yes. Rapid flu, COVID-19, and strep testing is available at Family First Urgent Care locations.
Do I need an appointment?
No. Family First Urgent Care accepts walk-ins and is open 7 days a week.
Visit Family First Urgent Care This Fall
Don't let fall allergies or seasonal illnesses keep you from enjoying the season. If you need an evaluation or rapid testing, visit a Family First Urgent Care location near you.