Allergies or Cold? Your Symptoms and Treatment Options

Allergy or cold?

Dr.
Hu: Hello, I started experiencing cold symptoms about three weeks ago, including continuous sneezing, nasal congestion, and a runny nose.
I took my usual cold medication (which has previously worked well for me), and for a while, it seemed to help.
However, one morning I woke up with severe sneezing, which felt like a real cold.
Since then, I have been sneezing repeatedly in the morning, at night, or when inhaling cold air.
When the temperature warms up or after drinking hot water, I return to normal.
I feel more comfortable wearing a mask in the morning and evening, but I have not experienced any coughing at all.
This is quite different from my previous cold experiences, leading me to suspect that it might not be a cold but rather nasal allergies.
I would like to ask: 1.
Are these symptoms indicative of a cold or allergies? 2.
Does entering middle age lead to changes in one's constitution that could trigger allergies? 3.
When swimming and using a steam room, I experience a lot of nasal discharge; could this help improve my nasal condition? Thank you for your response.

Kunrao, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/04/05

Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology

Hello, regarding your question, I would like to provide the following explanations:
1.
Common cold (acute rhinitis) typically resolves within a week with appropriate treatment.
Based on your symptom description, it is very likely that you are experiencing an allergic rhinitis episode; however, we cannot completely rule out the possibility that your acute rhinitis has not fully resolved, which may require a clinical examination by an otolaryngologist for a more definitive diagnosis.
2.
Entering middle age can lead to changes in the body that may trigger allergies.
3.
To date, there is no definitive medical report indicating that using a steam room improves nasal conditions.
Based on my personal clinical experience, some patients with allergic rhinitis may experience temporary relief of symptoms such as nasal congestion and sneezing while inhaling steam, but this does not provide a permanent solution.
My advice to you is: when your nose is symptom-free, avoid stimulating it; otherwise, once allergies are triggered, symptoms may worsen.
Wishing you a speedy recovery.

Best regards,
Hukshin

Reply Date: 2004/04/05

More Info

When it comes to distinguishing between allergies and a cold, it's essential to understand the symptoms and their underlying causes. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a combination of symptoms that could be indicative of either condition, but there are some key differences that can help clarify your situation.

1. Symptoms Analysis:
- Cold Symptoms: Typically, a cold is characterized by a gradual onset of symptoms such as a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, and sometimes mild fever. Colds are caused by viral infections and usually last about a week.

- Allergy Symptoms: Allergies, on the other hand, often present with symptoms such as sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, and nasal congestion that can occur suddenly and may be triggered by specific allergens (like pollen, dust, or pet dander). The absence of fever and the presence of symptoms that worsen in specific environments (like cold air or certain seasons) are strong indicators of allergies.

Given that you mentioned experiencing severe sneezing upon waking and when exposed to cold air, along with a notable improvement when the temperature warms or after drinking hot water, these symptoms lean more towards allergic rhinitis rather than a typical cold. The fact that you do not have a cough and that your symptoms are alleviated by warmth further supports this.

2. Age and Allergies:
- It is indeed possible for individuals to develop allergies later in life, even if they have not experienced them before. As people age, their immune systems can change, and they may become more sensitive to allergens that they previously tolerated. This phenomenon is known as adult-onset allergies and can be triggered by various factors, including environmental changes, exposure to new allergens, or alterations in immune function.

3. Steam Inhalation and Swimming:
- Regarding your question about using steam rooms or inhaling steam while swimming, this can provide temporary relief for nasal congestion. The warm, moist air can help soothe irritated nasal passages and may reduce inflammation, leading to improved airflow. However, if you find that you experience increased nasal discharge after such activities, it could be a sign of your nasal passages reacting to the humidity or temperature changes, which is common in individuals with allergies.

Treatment Options:
- Over-the-Counter Medications: Antihistamines can be effective in managing allergy symptoms. They work by blocking the action of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms. If you suspect allergies, consider trying an antihistamine like cetirizine or loratadine.

- Nasal Corticosteroids: These are effective for reducing inflammation in the nasal passages and can be beneficial for persistent symptoms. Examples include fluticasone or budesonide.

- Avoidance of Triggers: Identifying and avoiding known allergens is crucial. If cold air is a trigger, wearing a mask or scarf over your nose and mouth when outdoors in cold weather may help.

- Consultation with an Allergist: If symptoms persist or worsen, it may be beneficial to consult an allergist for further evaluation. They can perform tests to identify specific allergens and recommend a tailored treatment plan, which may include allergy shots (immunotherapy) if appropriate.

In summary, based on your symptoms, it appears you may be experiencing allergic rhinitis rather than a cold. Changes in your immune response as you age could explain the onset of these symptoms. Utilizing over-the-counter treatments and avoiding known triggers can help manage your condition effectively. If symptoms persist, seeking professional medical advice is recommended for a comprehensive evaluation and management plan.

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