Millions of Americans suffer from allergies, and we all fall prey to the common cold from time to time. Though very different, these two conditions cause similar symptoms.

Colds vs. Allergies

The causes of colds and allergies are very different. A cold develops when one of hundreds of different cold viruses gets into your body. You can contract his or her cold virus by shaking hands, being sneezed on, kissing or sharing a glass. You might simply touch an object the infected person has touched and contract the virus by rubbing your nose or touching your food. Once the virus is in your body the immune system kicks into high gear, resulting in common cold symptoms.

When it comes to allergies, there are no viruses or “bugs” to catch. An allergy is when your body mistakes benign substances like pollen for germs.

It’s a cold if you have…

• Congested and runny nose with thick green/yellow discharge

• Possible low fever

• Achy muscles

• Weakness and fatigue

It’s an allergies if you have…

• Congestion and runny nose with clear, thin discharge

• Sneezing and wheezing

• Itchy nose, throat, ears and itchy, watery eyes

• Symptoms that occur around the same time every year

If you have the unmistakable aches and fatigue that accompany colds, get plenty of rest and drink a lot of fluids. Natural remedies for colds include zinc, which is sold as lozenges or nasal sprays. Daily doses of vitamin C may prevent cold symptoms from taking hold. Immune booster, Echinacea, is also an effective cold preventer. Avoid spending time outdoors when the pollen count is high. Have any mold in your home treated professionally and regularly change the filters in your ventilation system. Decongestants may also help allergy suffers, along with antihistamines, which are available over-the-counter in non-drowsy formulas.

You may also consider herbal remedies for allergies. Dried nettles or teas made from this plant have been used to treat common allergies. Finally, grape seed extract, thanks to its high flavonoid content, is thought to reduce allergy symptoms.

If allergies are chronic or unmanageable, visit your doctor. Likewise, if a cold lasts longer than two weeks, make an appointment-it could be allergies or a more complex condition.

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2. How to deal with seasonal allergies?
3. Health food stores battle food allergies.
4. Fighting allergies with dust rags and hot water.
5. A diet to avoid the most common food sensitivities.