Studies have shown that many of us cannot distinguish a cold or flu, from an allergic attack. Although the symptoms are sometimes very similar, there are minor differences that will help you distinguish these health difficulties.
Runny nose
Coughing, sneezing and runny nose are symptoms of colds and flu. However if the mucus is yellow, you probably have cold.
Allergies also cause a runny nose, but with a colorless slime.
Itchy eyes
If the coughing and sneezing is accompanied by itching of the eyes, which are red and watery, it is more likely that you have an allergy.
Colds do not cause itching of the eyes, so it is one of the surest ways to distinguish cold and allergy.
You do not have enough air
The lack of air can be a symptom of colds and flu. Also growl in the chest and lack of air are common symptoms of respiratory diseases such as asthma or chronic obstructive lung disease.
These symptoms may be a sign of infection of the lower respiratory tract, such as bronchitis or pneumonia.
Temperature
If you have a fever, you probably have a cold. Allergies do not usually cause increase in temperature.
Duration of symptoms
Allergic symptoms will be present as long as you are exposed to allergens. The cold symptoms usually last up to 7 days.
