Colds and allergies often have similar symptoms and may be easily misdiagnosed and thus mistreated. A cold will last about a week and are often associated with high temperatures or body aches and pains whereas allergies tend to last longer. Other cold symptoms include a sore throat, runny nose, sneezing, wheezing and watery and itchy eyes. Colds are usually caused by a virus which is quite contagious. Treatment involves rest, fluids and healthy food as well as oral decongestants and nasal salines to relieve symptoms. Allergens such as pollen, dust mites, animal dander, molds, fungi and cockroaches are frequently the trigger for allergies, causing irritation and inflammation of the nasal cavity. Other allergy symptoms include a runny, stuffy nose, sneezing, wheezing, water eyes and itchy eyes. Allergies are not contagious and an immunologist can determine what allergen is causing the response. As for colds, there are no cures for allergies but over-the-counter medications and allergy shots may treat the symptoms.
Source: summary of medical news story as reported by About
About: Colds and allergies often difficult to distinguish
Date: 17 December 2004
Source: About
URL:
http:/ This summary article refers to the following medical categories:
What do you think about the features of this website?
Take our user survey and have your say:
Tools & Services:
Medical Articles:
Related Medical Topics
» Next page: College Students suffer sleep deprivation
Rate This Website
Medical Tools & Articles:
Forums & Message Boards
Search Specialists by State and City
By using this site you agree to our Terms of Use. Information provided on this site is for informational purposes only; it is not intended as a substitute for advice from your own medical team. The information on this site is not to be used for diagnosing or treating any health concerns you may have - please contact your physician or health care professional for all your medical needs. Please see our Terms of Use.
Copyright © 2009 Health Grades Inc. All rights reserved.
