How to Identify Common Illnesses This Season

Nurse practitioner explains the differences between colds, flu, and allergies

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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As the seasons change, many people are dealing with sniffles, congestion, and coughs. But how can you tell if it's just a common cold, the flu, or seasonal allergies? Knowing the difference is key for proper treatment and recovery. Brittany Jamison, a family nurse practitioner, breaks down the symptoms and provides guidance on identifying the underlying cause.

Why it matters

Correctly diagnosing the illness is important so people can get the appropriate care and treatment. Misdiagnosing a flu as a cold, for example, could lead to more serious complications if the flu is not properly managed. Understanding the differences can also help people take the right steps to find relief and recover more quickly.

The details

Jamison explains that colds typically come with a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, and mild cough, while the flu brings on fever, body aches, extreme fatigue, and a more severe cough. Seasonal allergies, on the other hand, often cause itchy, watery eyes and sneezing, but no fever. She advises paying attention to the duration of symptoms, as colds usually last 7-10 days while the flu can last 1-2 weeks. Allergies may persist for weeks or months depending on pollen levels.

  • This time of year, many people are dealing with cold, flu, and allergy symptoms.

The players

Brittany Jamison

A family nurse practitioner with Premier Health who provides guidance on identifying common illnesses.

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What they’re saying

“Knowing the difference can make all the difference when it comes to treatment and recovery.”

— Brittany Jamison, Family Nurse Practitioner (dayton247now.com)

The takeaway

Being able to distinguish between a cold, the flu, and seasonal allergies based on symptoms can help people get the right care and treatment to feel better faster. Consulting with a healthcare provider is the best way to get an accurate diagnosis and appropriate next steps.