What to Do about Allergies, Colds and the Flu

by: AWHONN Editorial Staff

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Is it flu, allergies or cold? You’re fine one minute and the next you’re tired, achy and feeling like you just want to curl up and sleep off whatever is affecting your body.

Are you fighting an oncoming cold? Allergies? Or could it be the flu? Use our symptom guide developed by federal health experts to start you on your way to a healthy rest and recovery.

Symptoms	Airborne Allergies	Colds	Flu
Fever	Never	Not typical; if so, lower than 100°F	Yes, higher (100°F+), especially in young children; up to 3-4 days
Headache	No	No	Yes
Aches, pains	Never	Slight	Yes; often severe
Fatigue, weakness	Sometimes	Sometimes	Yes, up to 3 weeks
Extreme exhaustion	Never	Never	Yes, especially at onset
Stuffy, runny nose	Yes	Yes	Sometimes
Sneezing	Usual	Usual	Sometimes
Sore throat	Sometimes	Yes	Sometimes
Cough	Sometimes	Yes	Yes, can become severe
Chest discomfort	No, unless you have allergic asthma	Sometimes	Yes
Treatment	Avoid things you’re allergic to; use antihistamines, nasal steroids, decongestants	Lots of rest and fluids for hydration, use decongestants and pain relievers for aches; aspirin in people ages 18+ only	Lots of rest and fluids for hydration, use decongestants and pain relievers for fever and aches; aspirin in people ages 18+ only; ask about antiviral medicines at onset
Prevention	Avoid allergens: pollen, dust, mites, mold, pet dander, cockroaches	Wash your hands often and avoid close contact with other people	Get the flu vaccine each year; wash your hands often, and avoid anyone who has the flu
Potential complications	Sinus infection, middle ear infection, asthma	Sinus infection middle ear infection, asthma	Bronchitis or pneumonia, which can be life-threatening