Every winter, countless people find themselves battling a runny nose, sneezing fits, and persistent congestion. Most instinctively blame a seasonal cold. But according to experts, many of these “winter colds” are actually winter allergies, a lesser-recognised but extremely common problem that intensifies as we spend more time indoors many struggle to tell one from the other. Yet, distinguishing between the two is important. “A cold runs its course, but allergies can continue indefinitely,” he adds.Winter allergies and common colds can look nearly identical at first glance. Both can cause sneezing, a runny nose, coughing, and general discomfort. However, they behave quite differently.The main difference is that colds are caused by viruses and are contagious, while allergies are an immune response to an allergen. Colds typically cause a sore throat, aches, and sometimes a fever, resolving in about a week to two weeks, whereas allergies are characterized by itching, watery eyes, and clear nasal mucus, with symptoms lasting as long as the allergen is present.

Common cold

• Cause: Viral infection, such as the rhinovirus.
• Symptoms: Sore throat, body aches, and fatigue are common. Fever is possible but rare.
• Duration: Typically lasts one to two weeks, with symptoms peaking in the first few days and gradually improving.
• Contagion: Yes, spreads through airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing.
• Other indicators: Mucus often becomes cloudy or yellow. 

Winter allergies

Other indicators: Fever and body aches are not typical. 

Cause: Immune system overreaction to allergens like dust mites, pet dander, or mold.

Symptoms: Itchy, watery eyes and sneezing are hallmarks. A stuffy or runny nose is common, but mucus is typically clear.

Duration: Can last for weeks or months, as long as the allergen is present.

Contagion: No, allergies are not contagious.