It’s that time of year when sneezing and stuffy noses can be heard everywhere. Many people assume that they are fighting off a cold virus. However, here in Florida where winter allergies abound, it is hard to know exactly what is causing your symptoms. So, how do you differentiate between the common cold and allergies to find relief fast?
It starts with understanding your symptoms. There are more than 100 different types of cold viruses and the severity of symptoms will vary. Common complaints include cough, sore throat and a stuffy, runny nose. Colds are also often accompanied by fever and body aches.
Like colds, allergy symptoms can include coughing, sneezing and runny nose, but are often accompanied by itchy and watery or dry eyes, along with wheezing and nasal congestion. It’s also important to pay attention to the onset of symptoms.
“A cold virus will take about three days from the time of infection to present symptoms. Allergies, on the other hand, present symptoms almost immediately after you come in contact with the allergen,” Dr. Frank DeRito, M.D., said.
Colds also don’t stick around as long as allergies. You should feel better within five to seven days. Allergies affect patients as long as they are exposed to the allergen, and the duration can fluctuate.
“Some patients with allergies suffer for weeks or even months off and on. That’s why we recommend allergy testing. We can narrow down the source of the allergic reaction and come up with a treatment plan to help patients manage and avoid them,” DeRito, a board-certified otolaryngologist with Florida E.N.T. & Allergy, said.
More than 50 million Americans suffer from allergies, many of them in silence. In fact, allergies are the sixth-leading cause of chronic illness in the United States. Unlike a cold, treatment options are readily available, including prescription and over-the-counter medications.
“The first line of defense is always to avoid the allergen. Once we identify what’s irritating your body, we can help you take action," DeRito said. "This includes lifestyle changes like checking pollen counts before you head outside and making sure your bedding and pillows are washed regularly if you have a dust allergy. If symptoms persist or are more severe, there are a number of prescription medications and minimally-invasive procedures available that can help patients find relief.”
The specialists at Florida E.N.T. & Allergy have been helping pediatric and adult patients in the Tampa Bay area for more than 40 years. With 17 board-certified physicians in 11 convenient locations, our experienced team specializes in all aspects of ear, nose and throat care to help get your allergies under control.