Colds and allergies share many symptoms, how do you know the difference?
- Coughing, runny nose and sneezing are signs of either a cold or allergies. However, when yellow mucous is accompanied with these symptoms, you may have a cold. Typically, an allergy is accompanied by a clear discharge.
- Itchy, runny nose as well as itchy, watery eyes are a good indication that you have allergies. Generally, a cold doesn’t cause that itchy sensation.
- Wheezing and shortness of breath can be signs of either a cold or an allergy. This is true in the case of asthma where it is allergy related.
- Colds and flu are caused by viruses therefore antibiotics don’t work against them. Antibiotics are anti-bacterial.
- Allergies will persist for as long as you are exposed to the allergen or what’s causing them. If the allergy is caused by something seasonal, such as pollen, then your symptoms should dissipate when the pollen goes away.
- Colds are more common in winter, however, you can get one almost any time of the year. Seasonal allergies are more common in the spring.
Relief for colds and allergies
Building the immune system helps fight against colds and in many cases against allergies. In order to build the immune system, it is important to eat a diet that is high on whole food and very low on processed foods. Whole food means real food - food that is grown from the ground and not in factories.
By rounding your plate with plentiful amounts of colourful fruits and veggies as well as whole grains, poultry, fish, beans and legumes and some meat, you are building the immune system and helping it to fight off colds and help to lessen the effects of allergies.
Probiotics are also important in building the immune system. Recent research shows that good gut bacteria is an important ingredient in supporting the immune system.
For more information about colds and allergies, please contact your health professional.
Originally published on Feb 02, 2015
