Is It Allergies or a Cold? How to Tell in Maryland’s Fall Weather

Are you noticing more sniffles, sneezing, or nasal congestion lately? As Maryland transitions from summer to fall, it’s common for residents in areas like Frederick and surrounding communities to experience symptoms like a runny nose, coughing, or sore throat.

But how do you know if it’s just a seasonal cold—or something else, like fall allergies? The overlap in symptoms can make it hard to tell. Understanding the differences between allergies and the common cold can help you make more informed decisions about your care.

What Are Allergies?

Allergies occur when your immune system overreacts to a substance that’s usually harmless. These substances, called allergens, may include:

• Pollen
  
  
• Dust mites
  
  
• Pet dander
  
  
• Mold
  
  
• Certain foods or chemicals
  

When exposed, your immune system may release histamines, causing symptoms such as:

• Sneezing
  
  
• Runny nose
  
  
• Nasal congestion
  
  
• Itchy, watery eyes
  
  
• Skin rashes or hives
  
  
• In rare cases, nausea or vomiting
  

Seasonal allergies in Maryland are especially common in the spring and fall, when trees, grasses, and weeds release large amounts of pollen.

What Is the Common Cold?

The common cold is a contagious viral infection that affects the upper respiratory tract. It spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, or touching contaminated surfaces—especially in crowded spaces like schools, offices, and public transportation.

Typical symptoms include:

• Sneezing
  
  
• Runny or stuffy nose
  
  
• Sore throat
  
  
• Cough
  
  
• Mild headache or fatigue
  
  
• Occasionally, a low-grade fever
  

Most colds resolve within 7 to 10 days, though fatigue or coughing may linger slightly longer.

Allergies vs Cold: Differentiating the Symptoms

Allergies and colds can have very similar symptoms. Here’s how you can tell the two apart by examining the present symptoms:

When Should You See a Doctor?

Talk to your healthcare provider if you experience any of these symptoms:

• Difficulty breathing
• Chest pain or tightness
• Swelling of the lips, tongue, throat, or face
• High fever
• Feeling weak or dizzy
• Symptoms are getting worse, or are lasting more than ten days

Allergies or the Common Cold: Frederick Breathe Free Can Help

If your sniffles, sneezing, or coughing have turned for the worse, it may be time to consider checking in with your ENT care provider. What you may be dealing with is a case of the common cold or seasonal allergies. Either way, a professional consultation should help you get to the bottom of your suffering, finally find answers, and get the most appropriate treatment that will help you breathe easier.

Our team at Frederick Breathe Free is committed to helping individuals and families in Maryland and surrounding communities. Schedule a consultation and start your journey toward better breathing and healthier sinuses.