Allergies often cause itchy eyes, nose, or throat; colds usually do not
Allergies usually cause clear, watery nasal discharge; colds often cause thicker mucus
Allergies often cause sneezing in bursts; colds usually cause less frequent sneezing
Allergies do not usually cause fever; colds sometimes do
Allergies can last for weeks or longer while exposed to the trigger; colds usually improve within 7 to 10 days
Allergies often start suddenly after exposure to pollen, dust, pets, or mold; colds usually develop gradually after infection
Allergies usually do not cause body aches; colds can cause mild body aches
Allergies often cause symptoms that are the same each time; colds can vary from one illness to another
Allergies are more likely if symptoms happen seasonally or in specific places; colds are more likely to spread from other people
Colds are more likely to cause sore throat, cough, and fatigue; allergies can cause these too but less often
If symptoms include fever, significant fatigue, or worsening cough, a cold is more likely
If symptoms include itching and repeated sneezing without fever, allergies are more likely