Test Your Knowledge

Colds, infections, flu and allergies can have very similar symptoms. Therefore, it may be difficult for patients to determine which they are experiencing. In fact, allergies may be identified for the first time when a patient consults a physician about a lengthy cold.

Of course, people with known allergies are often aware they are having an allergic reaction. And not all allergy symptoms mimic those of an infection. However, there are other conditions that could cause nearly all allergy symptoms. Ruling these conditions out may be a part of any allergy diagnosis.

There are a number of infectious conditions with symptoms similar to allergies, including:

• Common cold. A virus that can be contagious to others. Patients may avoid infecting others by frequently washing their hands and avoiding contact, particularly sneezing or coughing around other people. Colds tend to occur in the fall and winter while allergies can occur at any time of the year, depending on the allergy trigger.
  
  
• Flu (influenza). A contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. Flu symptoms are similar to cold and allergy symptoms. Flu vaccine may help develop the antibodies necessary to prevent infection by a specific influenza virus. Flu is also treated with rest, time and good nutrition.
  
  
• Sinus infections. An infection typically caused by bacteria that may also be caused by a viruses or fungi. Sinus infections involve blockage and inflammation of the sinuses and can be mistaken for allergies. Unlike allergies, sinus infections may be treated with antibiotics.
  
  
• Strep throat. A contagious bacterial infection of the throat spread through direct contact with mucus from an infected person. Strep throat may be treated by a physician with antibiotics.

A good guideline for distinguishing between a cold and an allergy is time. Colds get better over time, generally in 7 to 10 days, while allergic reactions can last for months. Eating nutritious foods, getting adequate rest, and drinking plenty of water will help to alleviate cold and flu symptoms.

While colds are usually just inconvenient, allergies can be serious conditions. Some forms can lead to chronic respiratory diseases, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Other allergies can produce a potentially life-threatening reaction called anaphylactic shock that involves difficulty breathing and a drop in blood pressure.

Although allergies themselves do not involve infection, they can lead to infections. For instance, symptoms caused by allergic rhinitis, if untreated, can cause fluid to build up in the ear, leading to recurring ear infections (otitis media).

Patient education and adequate management of the allergy through consultation with a physician can control allergic diseases. A physician can diagnose the specific trigger of the allergy and provide information to avoid the trigger and/or medication to treat a reaction. Although there is no cure for allergies, there are many treatment options including allergy medications and allergy shots. Patients should consult a physician to determine the appropriate treatment options.