What is the Difference Between a Winter Allergy and a Winter Cold?

In some ways, the symptoms of a cold and a winter allergy are similar. Oftentimes, individuals think they have a cold when they actually have an allergy. What is the difference? A cold is caused by a virus and a winter allergy is caused by an immune system response to something that is actually harmless to the body.

The similarities of the symptoms of a winter allergy and a cold include having a sore throat, sneezing, sinus and chest congestion, and coughing. Individuals are susceptible to colds and allergies in the wintertime because they are usually confined in the home.

Why are we so susceptible to colds and allergies in the wintertime?

Cold germs live in the air. During the wintertime, we usually keep the heat on, which creates a nice warm environment for the bacteria and viruses that live in the air. What's more, is that mold, dust, skin cells, and other allergens also make their home in the air in the home environment. If you aren't susceptible to winter allergies, then the dust and debris in the air of your home shouldn't bother you at all. However, you could still be at risk for developing a cold from exposure to the viruses in the air.

Some people do have winter allergies and also suffer from colds. I am allergic to the dust and debris in the air. I also have COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). I am more likely to get sick with a respiratory infection if I come down with a winter allergy. My immune system goes awry and floods my system with histamine. The allergy symptoms cause me to have a sore throat, wheezing, and head congestion. I get so worn down that I fall victim to the virus and get a cold. If I get a cold, it is a serious thing because I am already dependent on oxygen therapy. I get really sick.

What your doctor should know before treating you

Your doctor will need to know if you are suffering from a winter allergy or the common cold. This is one reason why the doctor wants your temperature taken when you visit. The nurses at my doctor's office take my temperature at every visit. If I'm running an elevated temperature, this is a sign of a bacterial or a viral infection. Oftentimes, when a person is allergic to the mold spores and other particulate in the air, the individual will most likely not have an elevated temperature, but if the person has a cold or flu virus, he or she could have a low grade fever.

Your doctor may look up your nose, examines your ears, and listen to your chest. Your doctor will ask how long you have had your present symptoms. If you have been suffering for just a few days, it is likely that you have a cold. However, if you have been having symptoms for weeks or even months, it is very likely that you are suffering from winter or indoor allergies. If you have an elevated temperature, you are most likely sick with a cold or flu virus, because allergies don't typically cause you to have a fever.

Sources:

Medicine Net

Personal experience