Runny Nose and Watery Eyes: Is It a Cold, Allergy, or Flu?
I am experiencing a Runny Nose! Watery Eyes!
It’s quite common and recurring among the people of California round the year to catch a cold but to differentiate it from Allergy or Flu is quite important so that you take the right medication especially if you are trying home remedies.
The major triggers can be seasonal changes, weather and environmental factors but it is important for you to know the difference to treat it appropriately and early at home.
In this blog, we’ll break down the common signs of each condition, helping you determine what might be affecting you and when it’s time to seek medical advice.
Cold, Flu, or Allergy? Key Differences
Common Cold
A cold is a viral infection that affects the upper respiratory system. It is usually mild and goes away within 7 to 10 days. It can differ from person to person. For some colds last just 3 days, for some it may prolong for a fortnight, and this is a sign of how good one’s immunity is.
The symptoms develop gradually and may include:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Sore throat
- Mild cough
- Mild body aches
- Low-grade fever (rare)
How to tell if it’s a cold:
Colds often come slowly and start with a sore throat or nasal congestion. Fever is uncommon, and symptoms typically peak within a few days before improving.
Flu (Influenza)
Flu symptoms appear suddenly and may include
- High fever (over 100.4°F)
- Severe body aches and fatigue
- Dry, persistent cough
- Chills and sweats
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose (less common than in colds)
- Lack of appetite
- Bitterness in the mouth
How to tell if it’s the flu
If you experience a sudden onset of fever, chills, body aches, and extreme fatigue, it’s likely the flu rather than a cold. Unlike allergies, the flu is contagious and can cause serious complications, especially in older adults and those with weakened immune systems.
Allergies
Unlike colds and the flu, allergies are not caused by viruses but by an immune system reaction to allergens such as pollen, pet dander, or dust mites. Allergies can be irritating and unpleasant, it needs to be addressed immediately.
Allergy symptoms include:
- Runny nose with clear mucus
- Sneezing
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Itchy throat or ears
- Nasal congestion
- No fever or body aches
How to tell if it’s allergies:
If your symptoms last for weeks and worsen when exposed to triggers like pollen or pet hair, you are likely dealing with allergies rather than an infection.
So, when do we seek Medical Attention
- High fever lasting more than three days
- Difficulty breathing or chest pain
- Severe sore throat with white patches (possible strep throat)
- Persistent congestion lasting more than 10 days
- Severe headache or sinus pain
- Shivering during time of rest
If you are unsure whether your symptoms are due to a cold, flu, or allergies, visiting an urgent care clinic can provide a quick diagnosis and relief.
Life Saver Urgent Care in Torrance, California accepts Walkins with no appointments. If you are in Torrance or in the neighborhood you can fix an appointment to avoid the wait time or just walk in if it is an emergency.