Even for doctors determining the difference between a cold and allergies can often be difficult.
The symptoms are so closely related that they almost feel like the same thing, and both are prevalent year round (the dust mite allergy is more common in winter, as is this cold).
So what's the difference between the two? A cold virus attempts to attack the body and naturally the body fights back.
When the immune system battles against the virus in an attempt to make you feel better it produces symptoms such as a runny nose and sore throat.
Allergies such as a dust mite allergy are mistaken by the body as a harmful substance and thus it produces the same sore throat and runny nose symptoms.
The biggest difference between the symptoms is caused from the cold virus.
Muscle aches, colored mucous and a fever can help you determine that you have a cold rather than allergies.
Itchy eyes are signs that you are having an allergic reaction.
Allergies, especially the dust mite allergy, tend to last a few weeks and will hit the body very quickly.
Colds tend to build slowly and last a week to ten days.
Fortunately, if you do mistake your cold for allergies or allergies for a cold, the treatment options and medicines are very similar.
Antihistamines and decongestants can often be used to alleviate cold virus symptoms (although they are designed for the dust mite allergy, pollen allergy etc.
) but knowing the direct source and cause is no doubt the best answer.
If you're unsure whether you have picked up a cold virus or are just suffering from allergies such as a dust mite allergy it is best to see a doctor who can provide answers to help you in future similar situations.
Targeting the direct source will cause less anxiety and allow you to remove any symptoms immediately.
Be aware that while certain medicines are helpful for both cold and allergies there are specific medicines and supplements you should look to avoid (especially with a dust mite allergy which is prevalent year round).
Immune boosters such as Echinacea have been found to ward off colds and viruses but weaken the immune system.
This will play a negative role towards both allergies and colds when you come off the supplement as both rely highly upon the body's immune system.
The immune system doesn't have a chance to build up on its own relying on outside sources and therefore is very susceptible to a harmful agent such as a virus or bug.