Pediatrician
Lebanon-Nabatieh

What is the Difference Between a Cold and an Allergy?
While some symptoms may be similar, there are key differences between a cold and an allergy:

1. A cold is contagious, whereas an allergy is not.
2. Cold symptoms develop gradually over a few days and usually last 7-10 days, while allergy symptoms appear within seconds or minutes and can be temporary or lifelong.
3. Fever is a common symptom of a cold but does not occur with allergies.
4. Muscle aches and body pain are common with colds but are not symptoms of allergies.
5. Colds can occur at any time of the year, while allergies depend on the type of allergen and exposure levels.

• How to Treat a Cold?

1. Get plenty of rest.
2. Drink fluids to prevent dehydration.
3. Use recommended medications such as paracetamol, ibuprofen, decongestants, and cough suppressants.

• How to Treat Allergies?

1. Avoid exposure to allergens.
2. Take antihistamines and mast cell stabilizers.
3. Use decongestants when needed.