Sniffling, sneezing, watery eyes and coughing: We’ve all been there. What starts as a tickle in the throat or a sneeze here or there can quickly turn into symptoms that last for days — sometimes weeks. But as common as these symptoms are, it can be hard to tell what exactly is causing your congestion.
With spring’s arrival in the Chicagoland area, your symptoms might be allergies. We asked UChicago Medicine AdventHealth Medical Group’s Ear, Nose and Throat physician specialist, Virginia Ann Smith-Bronstein, MD, to explain the differences.
“Allergies are not caused by a virus or by bacteria,” says Dr. Smith-Bronstein. Instead, allergy attacks are caused when your immune system overreacts to an allergen like pollen, pet dander or dust mites. Your body releases too many histamines, which cause symptoms such as:
- Coughing
- Nasal congestion
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Sore throat
- Watery eyes
Allergies are even more common than a cold. Dr. Smith-Bronstein explains, “It’s estimated that more than 50 million Americans suffer from some type of allergy. Seasonal allergies may occur at certain times of the year when allergens are present (trees in spring; grass in summer; ragweed in fall). Some individuals suffer from environmental allergens, such as dust, mold or animal dander, which are present year-round.”
You can ease your seasonal allergies by avoiding contact with allergens. For instance, limit your time outside when pollen counts are high. Over-the-counter medications such as Claritin or Zyrtec and nasal sprays can help, too.
How Can I Tell if it’s Allergies, a Cold or COVID-19?
“Allergies, colds and the coronavirus may be caused by different sources, but their symptoms are similar,” says Dr. Smith-Bronstein.
This handy cheat-sheet can help you tell the difference:
You might have allergies if:
- Mucus is clear
- Symptoms include itchy eyes, rashes, nasal congestion or sneezing
- Symptoms last longer than 10 days (with no fever)
- Symptoms worsen during certain times of year, after being outside or when leaving windows open
- You notice “allergy shiners” (dark undereye circles)
You might have a cold if:
- Symptoms last all day long and are worse at morning and night
- You begin to feel better after seven to 10 days
- Your symptoms include fatigue, body aches, fever and a sore throat
Coronavirus variants tend to have similar symptoms, but there are some notable differences, and the severity of symptoms is unique to each person.
- Symptoms typically develop between two to five days after a person is exposed to the virus, and they typically last a few days to a few weeks
- Common symptoms include dry cough, fatigue, fever, sore throat, body aches, headache, loss of taste or smell, rash on skin, or discoloration of fingers or toes
- Serious symptoms include chest pain or pressure, difficulty breathing, or shortness of breath
Seek immediate medical attention if you have serious symptoms.
We’re Here to Help
Virginia Ann Smith-Bronstein, MD, is a board-certified otolaryngologist or an ENT (ear, nose and throat) physician. She sees children, adolescents, adults and older adults. She is accepting new patients at her Bolingbrook, Plainfield and Hinsdale offices.
Call 630-861-6275 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
