Is it Fall Allergies or a Cold?

Fall Allergies or a Cold?

The cooler temperatures have arrived and you aren’t feeling too well. You can’t stop sneezing, sniffing and coughing?

So, what’s the deal? Is it allergies? Are you sick? Should you be scheduling an appointment with your doctor?

Before picking up the phone, it’s important to know the difference between the two. The common cold is typically the result of a viral respiratory tract infection, but an allergy is a hypersensitivity disorder when a person’s immune system reacts to normally harmless substances in the environment.

“You should make an appointment to see your doctor for any cold symptoms that last more than 1-2 weeks, or for any persistent allergy symptoms that do not respond to over-the-counter antihistamines,” said Lauren Strohm, DO, of Penn Medicine Valley Forge.

Contrary to what many think, spring is not the only allergy-prone season. As the temperatures begin to dip, many experience the effects of allergies similar to how they would in the spring.

Ragweed is the biggest culprit as it can travel hundreds of miles in the wind. While the yellow-flowering weed usually starts releasing pollen in August, it can last well into September and October. Nearly three-quarters of people who are allergic to spring plants are also allergic to ragweed.

Another fall trigger is mold. Many think of mold growing in their basement or bathroom, but mold spores also love outdoor wet spots such as piles of damp leaves.

Dust mites tend to get overlooked this time of the year, but can be allergy trigger for many. Although they are more common during the humid summer months, they can get mixed into the air when the individuals begin to use their heat.

Tips to Tell the Difference 

• Do you have a fever? If yes, you are dealing with something more than allergies. A fever is never a feature of an allergy.
• Itchiness and watery eyes? Although not always the case, this usually points to an allergy rather than a cold.
• A cold is usually self limiting (symptoms cease in a predictable manner), but an allergy needs interventions and treatment.
• Are others around you sick? A cold is contagious, while an allergy is not.
• How long have you not been feeling yourself? Colds can last a long time, usually between 1-3 weeks. Allergies, though, can stick around for a few days or months if an individual is continuously exposed to the allergen.
• When did the symptoms start? Symptoms of a cold take a few days to develop after the viral infection, but allergic symptoms begin immediately after the exposure.

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Win the Battle Against Allergies

Jeffrey Millstein, MD, a primary care physician at Penn Internal Medicine Woodbury Heights, explains what “allergies” are and how you can win the battle against them this season.

It is that wonderful time of year again. The black and white of winter has given way to the bright colors and plush landscapes of spring. Our moods have brightened; our clothes lightened but, unfortunately for some, the sniffling and sneezing of allergies has blurred the idyllic picture.

Jeffrey Millstein, MD

What are allergies?

Allergies – also known as “hay fever” or seasonal allergic rhinitis – is the fifth most common chronic condition in the United States. Pennsylvania and New Jersey have three allergy “seasons” the spring (when trees pollinate), the summer (when grasses release their pollen) and the fall (ragweed season).

An allergy occurs when your immune system overreacts and mistakes an ordinary substance, such as pollen, as a harmful invader. Inflammatory cells swarm to the area of contact (nose, sinuses, skin and eyes) and release antibodies, histamine and other destructive chemicals in an attempt to combat the “invader”, resulting in an allergic reaction.

How do I know if I have allergies?

Because common symptoms include runny nose, sneezing along with itchy and watery eyes. It can be difficult to distinguish allergies from an upper respiratory infection. There are, however, some clues to help determine what you are suffering from. Allergies can cause fatigue and misery from congestion to irritation of the respiratory tract, but will usually not make one feel truly “ill.” A fever, green or yellow mucous, deep cough or shortness of breath are indicative of infection and should prompt a call or visit to your primary care provider.

Allergies typically begin in childhood or adolescence, but they can develop at any time thereafter. While specific allergies are not directly inherited, your risk of developing allergies is increased if family members are affected.

Are there ways to fight allergies?

Below are some tips to help you get through the sneezing season more comfortably:

Avoid the thing you’re allergic to. Monitor pollen counts in your area and avoid outdoor activity when the count is especially high. The National Allergy Bureau or local weather stations provide accurate, accessible pollen count information. Keeping windows closed, and showering after coming indoors may also help prevent symptoms.

Try over-the-counter medications. Antihistamines are the most common of these remedies. Newer types, like certrizine, fexofenadine and loratadine are effective and are much less sedating than ones of the past. Nasal steroids, mast cell inhibitors and montelukast are other prescription options for refractory symptoms. A number of eye drops are available as well, specifically to treat itchy and watery eyes. Talk to your primary care provider to discuss what options would be best for you.

Natural remedies have shown efficacy for treating allergies. A few natural or homeopathic remedies have been shown to be effective, though some are outside the FDA’s purview: the European herb butterbur has shown some efficacy in clinical studies, similar to antihistamines and migraine relief medicine; salt water nasal spray can help wash out pollen from the nose and sinuses and, some cases, acupuncture can be helpful.

When symptoms do not respond to these interventions, as expected, and symptoms are severe or persistent, it may be time to see an allergist. They can perform skin and serologic testing for specific allergens and offer immunotherapy (allergy shots) when appropriate. Immunotherapy is based on the concept that the immune system can be desensitized to substances that trigger allergies. Injections can potentially lead to a lasting solution to allergy symptoms.

Allergies can be very annoying and sometimes disabling, but many effective options for prevention and treatment are available.

Establishing or maintaining a good rapport with your primary care provider or allergist will most likely lead to a satisfactory solution to this common problem.

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Spring into Good Health

Spring is here - at last! The flowers are blooming, the sun is shining and people seem to have just a little extra hop in their step. But if you're still finding it difficult to get out of hibernation mode, Penn Medicine offers some spring wellness suggestions to help:

Get Up, Get Out and Get Active

It can be hard to get back into the swing of things, especially after the harsh winter many of us just endured. Your body, though, will thank you once you get out into the fresh air. Go for a jog, hike, walk the dog, do some yard work, anything that gets your body moving.

Ever think about trying a 5k or 10k run/walk? Now is the perfect time to sign up and give it a shot. Check out a few upcoming runs sponsored by Penn Medicine.


Set goals for yourself in terms of the amount of activities you want to do in a week and have fun reaching them.

Eat Healthier

We know, it's easier said than done. But here's really why: with the additional outdoor activities you’ll be enjoying in the nice weather, your body needs more vitamins and nutrients. Spring is when many different fruits and vegetables come into season, which means your grocery store will be stocked with all kinds of produce. Take advantage of these fresh foods by integrating them into your diet. Not only are they good for you, but they will give you extra energy.

Be Prepared for Allergy Season

We all know the saying, “April showers bring May flowers”. For those that are prone to sniffles and sneezes as the weather warms, now is the time to prepare a plan of defense.

Although the thought is to open windows and allow some fresh air to come in, this can have consequences to those suffering from allergies. By keeping windows closed during this time of year, you can reduce the amount of pollen entering the house. It is also recommended that you change filters in air conditioning units and vents frequently throughout springtime.

When venturing outside, wear sunglasses and a hat to block pollen from landing on your head or entering your eyes. After being outside for an extended period of time, be sure to shower to remove any pollen from your hair and skin.

Finally, talk to your doctor about a seasonal allergy drug that may be appropriate for your symptoms. Or, just schedule an appointment before the season really kicks in.

Get Ready for Spring Cleaning

Did you know there are health benefits to spring cleaning? Not only can spring cleaning help reduce sneezing and sniffling by removing dust buildup, it can also help your mental health. By living in a clutter-free environment, you can reduce stress and anxiety. Remember that spring cleaning needs to be an ongoing activity because of the additional foot traffic, pollen, etc.

A few tips to guide your cleaning:

• In an attempt to control pollen, wash bedding every week in hot water.
• Wash throw rugs every couple weeks to reduce mold.
• Change filters in air conditioning units and vents every 30-60 days.

Work Out With Your Dog

Taking long walks or runs with your dog can help both of you stay in shape! The recommended time per day for walking your dog is 30 minutes. Just think, you can burn calories and enjoy time with your pup. In fact, a 140-pound woman walking at a leisurely pace for a half an hour can burn up to 100 calories! Of course your pet benefits as well.

Benefits of getting fit with your dog include:

• Motivation to exercise – there's nothing like an workout partner who's waiting by the door with a wagging tail to keep you motivated!
• Helps digestive system – a brisk walk can help aid digestion after a big meal.
• Increased cardiovascular fitness – steady movement can get your heart rate up and can help lower blood pressure.
•  Improve balance and coordination.

All the above benefits go for your dog as well. In addition, this time together strengthens the bond between you and your pet, and leads to a strong, trusting relationship.

Spring brings many opportunities, so say goodbye to snow shovels and warmer jackets and say hello to extended days and new outdoor adventures. Like all good things, this time of year is fleeting. So be sure to make the best of it!

For more helpful tips and information, check out Patient Resources section.

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