How to distinguish a cough due to SARS from an allergic cough

How to distinguish an allergic cough from a cold?

Because colds and allergies have many of the same symptoms, it can be difficult to distinguish the two diseases from each other. But there are several characteristic features of each of them that help to distinguish each other. The common cold usually occurs after contact with viruses and is manifested by nasal congestion, unpleasant sensations in the throat, cough and fever. Allergy symptoms, in turn, are related to the immune system’s response to allergens such as pollen, dust, mold or animal dander, and include a runny nose, sneezing, itchy eyes, and coughing without phlegm. If symptoms occur regularly at the same time of each year, it may be a sign of seasonal allergies. If in doubt, you should consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

What is the causative agent of colds and allergies?

The common cold is caused by viruses that spread from person to person, usually through droplets of air when coughing or sneezing. Allergy occurs in response to exposure to irritating substances – allergens. At the same time, both pollen (with hay fever) and food, pet hair and house dust can act as an allergen. When an allergen enters the body, it triggers an immune reaction that leads to allergy symptoms. The main cause of allergies is the hypersensitivity of the immune system to any substance.

Colds can be transmitted by coughing or sneezing from a sick person to a healthy one. Allergies are not contagious. If you have a sensitivity or allergy to any substance, you may develop a reaction. Someone who does not have the same sensitivity or allergy will not have a reaction.

What time of year do symptoms appear?

Cold symptoms are more likely to occur in the cold season, in autumn and winter, when viruses are more active. Allergic symptoms associated with pollen or mold can be worse in the spring and summer, when these allergens are found in greater numbers in the environment. Seasonal allergens, such as pollen from trees, grasses and weeds, are most often caused by allergies, but allergies to some substances can be year-round.

What is the duration and intensity of the disease?

Colds usually last 7 to 10 days. In some cases, the virus can contribute to the development of a more serious infection, such as sinusitis, pneumonia or bronchitis. Allergic symptoms may be longer-lasting. Seasonal allergens usually cause symptoms within 2-3 weeks until you undergo treatment or eliminate the precipitating factor. If you experience seasonal allergies, the symptoms may recur every year at the same time that the concentration of allergens in the air rises. Allergy to grass is highest in late spring – summer, and allergy to ragweed – in late summer and autumn. The likelihood of an allergic reaction depends on where you live and what allergen is causing it.

The intensity of the symptoms of an allergic cough may also differ from a cold. The latter often begins with mild symptoms, such as malaise and nasal congestion, and can then progress with an increase in more serious symptoms, such as cough, sore throat and fever. In the case of allergies, the symptoms may be more stable and vary depending on the degree of contact with the allergen. In rare cases, a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction may develop – anaphylaxis, which requires immediate medical attention.

What is the difference between the nature of the discharge?

With a cold, abundant discharge is mucus, which can be clear or yellowish. With allergies, the discharge can also be clear and watery, but it is usually less thick than with a cold. It is important to note that the color of the discharge may not always be an accurate indicator of the cause, as the common cold can have different developmental options.

Is there a fever with allergies?

Fever is usually associated with infectious processes such as colds or flu, so it rarely occurs with allergies. However, in rare cases, in some people, an allergic reaction can cause a fever. If you have a high fever, then this is most likely an indication of the presence of an infection, not an allergy.

When is itching, redness?

Itching and redness are usually characteristic of allergic reactions. Rashes, hives, itchy eyes, swelling, shortness of breath or wheezing are signs by which you can distinguish allergies from colds.

In what cases does my head and throat hurt?

Headache and sore throat are more common for colds, especially if fever is present. The combination of headache, fever, body aches and fatigue are signs by which you can distinguish a cold from an allergy.

Is there a cough with allergies?

Yes, coughing can also be a symptom of an allergic reaction, especially if the allergen enters the respiratory tract. Cough with allergies is often dry and is not accompanied by sputum discharge, unlike cough with a cold, which is often accompanied by profuse sputum.

Symptoms of allergic rhinitis

• Runny nose, nasal congestion.
• Sneezing, itching in the nose.
• Redness and itching of the eyes.
• Lacrimation.
• Deterioration of the sense of smell.
• An allergic salute is a characteristic gesture, especially for children. When a person rubs the tip of the nose with the palm of his hand or fingers, as a result of which he twitches from the bottom up.

Diagnostics

To determine the cause of the symptoms and the difference between colds and allergies, it is necessary to carry out an appropriate diagnosis. When a person goes to the doctor with complaints of a runny nose, cough or other symptoms, the specialist conducts a thorough examination and asks questions about the nature and duration of the symptoms, as well as possible contacts with infectious agents or allergens.

To diagnose an allergic reaction, your doctor may prescribe allergy tests. These can be tests on the skin, in which small amounts of potential allergens are applied to the skin, and the doctor observes the body’s reaction. Sometimes, doctors or allergy specialists may also use a blood test to diagnose allergies, depending on your age and other health conditions.

It is important to make an accurate diagnosis in order to prescribe the correct treatment, eliminate possible complications and prevent recurrent attacks. Therefore, in case of doubt or the presence of chronic symptoms, you should consult a qualified doctor for consultation and examination.

Treatment of colds and allergies

Over time, your body will get rid of the cold virus. Because antibiotics only kill bacteria, they have no effect on the viruses that cause the common cold. In most cases, the only treatment that can offer is rest and drinking plenty of fluids. Some medications can relieve symptoms for the duration of a cold.

For example, to ease the cough, you can take a course of taking Bronchoviol syrup

Consult your doctor before taking any over-the-counter cold remedy, especially if you are also taking prescription medications, have a medical condition, or are pregnant.

Do not use cold medicines for a long time. Their long-term use can cause side effects.

Allergy treatment may include avoiding contact with allergens, antihistamines to relieve symptoms, inhaled corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, and in some cases, immunotherapy to gradually reduce sensitivity to allergens.

Allergic cough in a child

In children, an allergic cough can be particularly restless, as it can lead to sleep disturbances and affect the child’s behavior during the day. It is important to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. For infants and young children, treatment is usually based on non-drug methods, such as avoiding allergens and maintaining a healthy environment.

Allergic cough in adults

In adults, an allergic cough can also cause discomfort and impair quality of life. Identifying the allergen causing the reaction allows you to take measures to prevent contact with it. Your doctor may prescribe antihistamines, decongestants, nasal corticosteroids, eye drops, and, in severe cases, allergy injections. This effect helps to desensitize the body to this substance. This can be a very effective long-term solution to eliminate allergy symptoms.

Allergic bronchial asthma

In some people, an allergic reaction can cause asthma attacks. In this case, in addition to antihistamines and corticosteroids, the doctor may prescribe bronchodilators to expand the airways and facilitate breathing.

In conclusion, colds and allergies have similar symptoms, but have different causes and treatment approaches. If you suspect an allergy or cold, it is important to consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and optimal treatment.

Literature:

1. Ljubin-Sternak S, Meštrović T. Rhinovirus-A True Respiratory Threat or a Common Inconvenience of Childhood?. Viruses. 2023 Mar 24. 15 (4)
2. Gawchik S, Goldstein S, Prenner B, John A. Relief of cough and nasal symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis by mometasone furoate nasal spray. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2003 Apr;90(4):416-21. doi: 10.1016/S1081-1206(10)61826-1. PMID: 12722964.
3. Jim McMorran; Damian Crowther; Stew McMorran; Steve Youngmin; Ian Wacogne; Jon Pleat; Clive Prince. “allergic salute – General Practice Notebook”. Gpnotebook.co.uk. Retrieved 2012-11-25.

Author: Natalia Kandybey, Candidate of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Quality Director of PJSC Pharmaceutical Factory “VIOLA”

The information provided is not medical advice and does not replace professional health recommendations.

The information is based on scientific literature and is provided for informational purposes only.