Allergies vs. Colds: How to Tell the Difference

Uh-oh, a cold is coming on – or wait, is it just allergies? Many people often confuse the two due to their similar symptoms, like sneezing, runny nose and congestion. However, understanding the differences can help you determine the right treatment and relief strategies. This guide will break down the symptoms, causes, duration and management tips to help you accurately tell the difference between allergies and colds. So, let’s dive in and clear up the confusion—before the pollen and germs get the best of us!

Understanding the key differences between allergies and colds may help identify the right treatment and managing symptoms effectively.

According to Dr. Michael O’Connell, MD, FAAAAI, FACAAI, Board-Certified Allergist, “There are two characteristics that can help differentiate an allergy from a cold. The first is that allergies almost never cause fever while low-grade fever is often associated with a viral infection. Second is the time of year. Colds and other upper respiratory infections are more common in the Fall and during the Winter months when people congregate indoors more."

Besides these differences in symptoms, you can also determine if you have allergies or a cold by symptom timing. Allergy symptoms appear immediately after allergen exposure. Perhaps the pollen count is particularly high in your area, and you’ve just spent some time outdoors. Or you’ve just visited a friend who owns a pet. If you suddenly start experiencing symptoms, consider your recent history and environment for clues. The time of year can also be a big clue. High pollen levels during Spring would most likely indicate allergies, while illnesses in the Winter — when people spend more time together indoors with little to no air flow – can indicate cold and flu cases. Check out our guide When Pollen Season Starts to learn more about seasonal patterns.

Cold symptoms, on the other hand, can take 1 to 3 days to develop after exposure to the virus.² Unlike allergies that can last a whole season and more, people typically recover from a common cold in 7 to 10 days.³

We know living with allergens can be tough, but keeping door and windows closed can help, along with a regular routine of allergen maintenance that includes Clorox PURE Allergen Neutralizer sprays.

According to Dr. Michael O’Connell, “Many indoor allergens are suspended in the air so standard household cleaning techniques don’t always work to lower exposure to those allergens as much as you might think. Clorox PURE Allergen Neutralizer Daily Air Spray was scientifically designed to target and inactivate the airborne allergens in pet dander, dust mite particles and pollens that cause allergic reactions in your body.” He adds that “while household cleaning is important, it may not take care of residual allergens in hard-to-clean materials such as upholstered furniture, curtains, throw pillows and mattresses. Clorox PURE Allergen Neutralizer Fabric & Carpet Spray is a targeted treatment specifically designed by internal leading scientists to neutralize common indoor allergens so that those proteins can’t trigger allergic reactions in your body.”