Whenever the weather starts to turn chilly, winter colds are sure to make their dreaded appearance. Many people tend to have several colds during a winter season. However, what most believe to be colds may actually be winter allergies. Winter allergy symptoms are similar in many respects to cold symptoms.
Colds and winter allergies have some symptoms in common. For instance, both conditions manifest with sneezing, a runny nose and nasal congestion. Most cold sufferers will complain of having at least a minor sore throat. Allergy sufferers will sometimes have a sore throat as a result of post nasal drip. This occurs when nasal secretions run down the back of the throat.
Fatigue is also a common symptom of both winter colds and winter allergies. With colds, fatigue is usually greatest at the onset. For one suffering from seasonal allergies, fatigue is usually the result of becoming worn down with continuing bouts of prolonged sneezing. One final symptom that colds and allergies have in common is coughing. Coughing is almost always present with colds. Allergy sufferers, especially those with allergy-induced asthma, will have coughing as a feature of their condition.
Despite their similarities, there are several symptoms that do distinguish colds and allergies. The biggest clue that one is dealing with a cold as compared to allergies is the presence of a fever. Most cold sufferers will run a fever, but allergies do not cause one. Eye symptoms are another major distinguishing factor. Those with a cold will rarely experience itchy and watery eyes, but this is one of the major winter allergy symptoms.
The treatment of allergies and colds are quite distinct. While many colds can be treated with over-the-counter medications, patients who feel that they are suffering from allergies may want to visit AACOS where winter allergy specialists can diagnose and provide treatment options for seasonal allergies.
Some of the treatments for the indoor allergies that occur in winter include taking a course of allergy shots that desensitize the patient to the allergens in his or her environment. Antihistamines and decongestants are also helpful. A winter allergy specialist may also prescribe nasal corticosteroid sprays to help control symptoms. Winter does not have to be uncomfortable when allergy sufferers get the help needed to relieve their symptoms.
If you believe you may be suffering from winter allergies, please don’t hesitate to call our allergy physicians here at Asthma and Allergy Associates. We can help you treat your winter allergy symptoms and keep your winter worries somewhere else! Give us a call to book an appointment today!