In this article:
- Colds and allergies share common symptoms, but there are also key differences.
- Itchy, watery eyes are likely allergies, but if your temperature is high, it could be a sign of infection.
- Watch this short video featuring one of our Swedish pediatric health experts to help you decide which is the best course of treatment for you.
This is the time of year when sniffles and sneezes may be hitting us hard. But how can you tell if your symptoms stem from allergies or the common cold?
While allergies and the common cold have similar symptoms, there are key differences to look out for. Elizabeth Meade, M.D., pediatric medical director at Providence Swedish, shares that having a fever could indicate an infection which rules out allergies; while an itchy nose or mouth, or watery eyes would not. Additionally, paying attention to how long your symptoms stick around can give you a clue whether it’s allergies or a cold.
In this short video, Dr. Meade shares other helpful tips on understanding the differences and when to seek help from a health care professional.
Learn more and find a practitioner
If you have questions about vaccinations or your child’s wellness, Swedish Pediatrics can help.
You can contact Swedish Primary Care to schedule an appointment with a primary care provider. If you or a child has symptoms, you can connect virtually with your provider to review the symptoms, provide instruction and follow up as needed. With Swedish ExpressCare Virtual you can receive treatment in minutes for common conditions such as colds, flu, urinary tract infections, and more. If you don’t have a doctor, use our provider directory to find a specialist or primary care physician near you.
Information for patients and visitors
Additional resources
The best time to find a primary care practitioner is when you don’t need one
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This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
