Allergy or Cold? Symptoms Surge as Pollen Rises

Seasonal allergies and common colds share many overlapping symptoms, leaving many unsure of the cause.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 5:05am

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A ghostly, translucent X-ray photograph showing the internal structure of a human nasal passage and sinus cavity, glowing against a dark background, conceptually illustrating the difficulty in distinguishing between cold and allergy symptoms.As seasonal allergies and common colds share many overlapping respiratory symptoms, an X-ray view of the nasal passages reveals the challenge in determining the underlying cause.Cornell Today

As temperatures warm and pollen levels increase across the Midwest, many people are experiencing sniffles, sneezes, and other respiratory symptoms - leaving them wondering whether they have a cold or seasonal allergies. While colds and allergies share similar symptoms, there are some key differences that can help people determine the cause of their discomfort.

Why it matters

Correctly identifying the cause of respiratory symptoms is important so people can take the appropriate steps to find relief, whether that means resting and hydrating for a cold or taking antihistamines for allergies. Knowing whether it's a cold or allergies can also help prevent the spread of illness, as colds are contagious while allergies are not.

The details

Common cold symptoms like a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, and sneezing can also be signs of seasonal allergies. However, allergies are typically accompanied by itchy, watery eyes and an itchy nose or throat, which are less common with colds. Colds also often come with a fever, while allergies do not. The timing and duration of symptoms can also provide clues - colds usually last 7-10 days, while allergy symptoms can persist for weeks or months during pollen seasons.

  • As temperatures rise across the Midwest in the spring of 2026.
  • Pollen levels have been increasing in the region.

The players

Jim Feira

An individual assigned to work the French toast station at a Knights of Columbus pancake breakfast fundraiser for a public library addition in Cornell, Wisconsin.

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The takeaway

With overlapping symptoms, determining whether respiratory issues are caused by a cold or seasonal allergies can be tricky. But paying attention to the specific symptoms, their duration, and any accompanying factors like fever or itchy eyes can help people get the right diagnosis and treatment to find relief.