HealthyPlusno2Aug30pages (1) - Flipbook - Page 17
“ There are steps you can take to
keep allergies from ruining your
summer fun.”
– Dr. Nicholas Wild, SVMC Northshire Campus
Sneezing Season: Seasonal cold or allergies?
The common cold and seasonal allergies share a lot of symptoms. It’s important to figure out which
you’re dealing with so you can treat it properly and, if you have a cold, take steps not spread it to others.
Here are few questions to ask yourself to determine what you have.
Do you have
a runny nose?
NO A stuffy nose is a common symptom of a cold.
YES If yes, is the discharge clear and thin or a thick yellow or green?
CLEAR
A clear, thin discharge
is most likely allergies.
Do you have
a fever?
YELLOW OR GREEN
A thick discharge that’s yellow or
green indicates a cold.
NO Allergies do not cause fever.
YES A low-grade fever is a common symptom of a cold.
Are your eyes
and nose itchy?
NO Itchy eyes and nose are not a common symptom of a cold.
Did your
symptoms
come on
suddenly or
slowly?
SUDDENLY Allergy symptoms typically appear quickly when you’re
exposed to an allergy.
YES Itchy, red, watery eyes and an itchy nose are common
symptoms of allergies.
SLOWLY Symptoms of a cold often build over several days.
If you think you’re experiencing seasonal allergies, see your doctor to confirm your diagnosis and to
discuss potential treatment options that will help manage symptoms and make the most of
the season.
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