If you find yourself with a constant case of the sniffles, it can be difficult to tell whether you've got allergies vs. common cold. These two illnesses share many of the same symptoms, including runny nose, sinus headaches, and more. In order to effectively treat your symptoms, however, you have to know what the source is. Using cold medicine for allergy symptoms and vice versa may provide short-term relief, but it fails to address the underlying issue. Here a few simple ways to identify the source of your sniffles and choose appropriate treatment options. First, begin by identifying your symptoms to determine whether you've got allergies vs. common cold. Is your nose running or congested? Does your head ache, and if so, is it above or under your eyes? Do you have soreness or scratchiness in your throat? Make a list of your symptoms, and use descriptive words - this helps your doctor make an informed diagnosis, if required. The common cold typically causes nasal and sinus congestion, blocking the nasal passages and making it difficult to breathe through your nose. A constant nasal drip is more common with allergies - feeling like you have to constantly blow your nose is a sure giveaway that something is irritating your sinuses. Headaches associated with a cold usually cause aches above and around the eyes, while allergies create pressure in the sinus cavity, which is to the sides of the nose. While allergies can sometimes cause minor throat irritation, a truly sore or scratchy throat is almost always specific to a cold or infection, and should be treated by a doctor. Most throat irritations associated with allergies clear up in a few days and can be treated with over-the-counter medications or home remedies such as hot tea or saltwater gargling. Allergies can strike at any time of the year, because there is almost always some kind of plant or flower coming into bloom. If you find yourself sticking close to the tissue box or trying to medicate a pounding sinus headache, these are sure signs that you should check with your allergist. There are astonishing developments in allergy treatment today, making it easier than ever to treat those nagging, annoying symptoms and live a healthy, allergy-free life!
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