How to Tell the Difference Between a Cold, the Flu, or Allergies This Fall

As the weather begins to change, bringing colorful leaves and cooler temperatures, it’s common to hear sneezing, coughing, and throat clearing all around. But what do these symptoms really mean? Could it be a cold, the flu, or seasonal allergies?

It’s not always easy to tell. While these three conditions often share similar symptoms and are extremely common in the fall, they each have different causes and require different treatments. Understanding the difference is key to getting the right care and feeling better, faster.

The Difference Between Allergies, a Cold, and the Flu

Being able to tell the difference between allergies, a cold, and the flu helps you make informed decisions about your health. If you’re unsure or if symptoms worsen, it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional. Here’s how you may tell them apart.

The Common Cold

The common cold, caused by viruses that affect the upper respiratory tract, typically develops slowly and lasts between 7 to 10 days. Unlike other respiratory infections, colds rarely cause high fever or severe muscle aches. Symptoms tend to be milder than other infections but spread easily through respiratory droplets and contact with contaminated surfaces.

Common cold symptoms include:

• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sore throat
• Sneezing
• Mild cough
• Fever
• Watery eyes
• Headaches

It’s important not to overlook respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). RSV is another illness that circulates in the fall and winter months and could be misdiagnosed at home as a common cold. While RSV presents cold-like symptoms, it can be serious, especially in infants and older adults. If you or your child are having trouble breathing, wheezing, or a high fever, consult a healthcare provider right away.

The Flu

Influenza, or the flu, is a viral illness that affects the respiratory system and tends to come on suddenly and more intensely than a cold. The flu typically lasts 1 to 2 weeks, and in older adults or people with weakened immune systems, it can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia.

Common flu symptoms include:

• High fever
• Muscle and joint pain
• Intense headache
• Extreme fatigue
• Persistent dry cough
• Sore throat

Allergies

Allergies are not caused by viruses or bacteria, but by your immune system’s response to allergens such as pollen, dust, or mold. Allergy symptoms are not contagious and typically do not cause fever or body aches. Symptoms can persist for weeks or even months while exposure to allergens continues.

Common allergy symptoms include:

• Frequent sneezing
• Nasal congestion and watery discharge
• Itchy eyes, nose, and throat
• Watery and red eyes

24/7 Care, All Fall Long

Whether it’s a sore throat that won’t go away or sudden flu-like symptoms, a visit with us can help quickly identify the cause and guide you toward the right treatment. At Texarkana Emergency Center & Hospital, we’re here for you and your family with 24/7 expert care, onsite rapid lab testing, and a dedicated team ready to help you feel better, faster.

Don’t let illness slow you down this fall. We’re here to help you get back to feeling your best and enjoying the holiday season.

Disclaimer: As a service to our readers, Texarkana Emergency Center & Hospital and Nutex Health state no content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.