The dreaded first sneeze. The onset of a sore throat. The constant runny nose. Now what?

With such similar symptoms, particularly during the fall and winter months, it can be hard to figure out whether you have the flu, a common cold or allergies. Both a cold and flu are caused by different viruses, whereas allergies are a physical reaction to an allergen or trigger substance. During the winter months, reactions to indoor allergens — airborne dust particles, pet dander, insects and mold — are more prevalent due to less ventilation.

Common symptoms of each ailment include runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough and congestion. A common cold and the flu can be hard to distinguish, but the flu is typically associated with more severe symptoms, such as high fever, headaches and fatigue, that are less common with a general cold. These symptoms are not related to allergies,
according to Mario Rodenas, M.D., UF College of Medicine assistant professor and a medical director of the UF Health Allergy at Springhill clinical practice.

Allergies can cause typical cold symptoms, but they can also cause itchy and watery eyes, which help distinguish allergies from a cold or flu. Observing a clear, liquid mucus generally points to allergies but a yellow mucus typically indicates a more serious infection.

Additionally, the length of symptoms is one of the best ways to help identify your issue, according to Rodenas. Cold and flu symptoms typically last for about one to two weeks and can often be treated with rest and over-the-counter medicine. Allergy symptoms last as long as you are exposed to the allergen, which can be affected seasonally.

If you are experiencing symptoms for longer than a week or over-the-counter treatments have been ineffective, you should consult your general practitioner or local allergy specialist.