Symptoms of an Allergy that Feel Like a Cold
Many people experience allergies that can be mistaken for a cold. Allergies are caused by your body's reaction to an allergen, such as pollen or pet dander. A cold, on the other hand, is caused by a virus. Allergy symptoms that feel like a cold include nasal congestion, sneezing, and a runny nose. Other allergy symptoms can include itchy eyes, a scratchy throat, and fatigue.
Diagnosing Allergy Symptoms That Feel Like a Cold
If you are experiencing symptoms that feel like a cold, it is important to get accurately diagnosed to determine if it is in fact an allergy or a cold. Your doctor can help you determine the cause of your symptoms by asking you questions about your medical history, such as if you have been exposed to any new allergens or if you have had any recent colds. Your doctor may also recommend a skin test or blood test to help confirm the diagnosis.
Treating Allergy Symptoms That Feel Like a Cold
Treatment for allergies that feel like a cold is usually focused on symptom relief. Over-the-counter antihistamines can help relieve symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, and a runny nose. Decongestants can also be used to relieve nasal congestion. It is important to read the labels on the medication carefully to make sure it is right for you.
If your symptoms are more severe, your doctor may recommend a prescription medication such as an intranasal corticosteroid to help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages. For more severe allergy symptoms, your doctor may also recommend allergy shots, or immunotherapy, to reduce your sensitivity to allergens.
Preventing Allergy Symptoms That Feel Like a Cold
The best way to prevent allergy symptoms that feel like a cold is to avoid exposure to the allergen that is causing the reaction. If you are allergic to pollen, you should stay indoors as much as possible when pollen counts are high. You should also avoid contact with pets and other animals if you are allergic to their dander.
If you are unable to avoid the allergen, you can use an over-the-counter nasal spray to help reduce your exposure. You can also use air purifiers with HEPA filters in your home to help reduce allergens in the air. It is important to talk to your doctor first before taking any medications or using any products to prevent allergies.
