Many are waiting for winter to be over. With the coming of spring, allergy season will be upon us. One problem many people have is distinguishing allergies from common colds. While colds are caused by viruses and last between four and seven days, allergies are caused due to several factors, pollen being one of them, and usually last much longer than a normal cold would.
Although there are similar symptoms between colds and allergies, such as runny nose, sneezing and congestion, cold symptoms such as body aches and fevers are not associated with allergies. On the other hand, itchy eyes are common to allergic reactions and rarely occur with a cold.
A common myth with allergies is that the only treatment is avoiding triggers that cause the allergy in the first place. But while there is no cure for allergies, there are several treatment options that reduce symptoms, such as decongestants and antihistamines.
Another myth is allergy related to animals. The real culprit of this allergy is not the animal itself, but rather dander (dead skin cells), saliva and urine. Pet hair and fur are not allergens themselves, but they do collect other allergens such as dust and pollen. There are ways of reducing exposure to allergens by vacuuming the floors frequently and bathing pets that have been outside. Allergies change over time.
Many people do outgrow allergies, with about 60 to 80 per cent of young children outgrowing allergies to milk or eggs by the age of 16.
Research also shows that the body’s reaction and sensitivity to certain allergens, such as dust mites, is higher in younger people.