Cold symptoms often include fever, body aches, sore throat, and thick mucus
Allergy symptoms often include itchy eyes, itchy nose, sneezing, and clear runny mucus
Cold symptoms usually develop gradually over a few days
Allergy symptoms often start quickly after exposure to an allergen
Colds usually last about 7 to 10 days
Allergy symptoms can last as long as you are exposed to the trigger
Colds are more likely to cause fatigue and feeling unwell
Allergies are more likely to cause repeated sneezing and nasal itching
Colds are caused by viruses
Allergies are caused by immune reactions to triggers like pollen, dust, or pet dander
If symptoms happen during certain seasons or around pets, allergies are more likely
If symptoms follow contact with sick people, a cold is more likely