by Boulder Medical Center
If you’ve been sneezing, sniffling, or feeling congested, you may wonder whether you have a cold or allergies. Both can cause similar symptoms, but how you treat them depends on what’s behind your discomfort.
Understanding the difference can help you find relief faster and know when to visit urgent care or your local pharmacist for guidance.
Understanding Colds and Allergies
Colds are caused by viruses that spread from person to person. They usually start with a sore throat or runny nose, followed by congestion, sneezing, and sometimes a cough. Cold symptoms peak after a few days and typically clear up within one to two weeks.
Allergies occur when your immune system reacts to harmless substances like dust, pet dander, mold, or pollen. Common allergy symptoms include sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, and a stuffy or runny nose. Unlike colds, allergies don’t cause fever and can persist as long as you’re exposed to the allergen.
If your symptoms last longer than two weeks or seem to return regularly, allergies are more likely the cause.
How to Feel Better
Whether you’re dealing with a cold or allergies, simple steps can help you feel better:
- Stay hydrated and get plenty of rest. Fluids help thin mucus and relieve congestion.
- Use a humidifier to keep nasal passages comfortable.
- Limit exposure to allergens by cleaning regularly and using air filters.
If your symptoms are severe, persistent, or interfering with daily life, consider visiting an urgent care or your primary care provider. These experts can help assess your symptoms, recommend treatment, and rule out infections that need further care.
You can also visit a pharmacy for guidance on over-the-counter medicines and allergy relief options.
When to Seek Medical Care
See a provider if you experience any of the following:
- Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
- Symptoms lasting more than 10 days without improvement
- Symptoms that improve but return and worsen
- Fever lasting more than four days
- Chronic health conditions that flare up
- Any symptom that feels severe or concerning
When It’s Time to See an Urgent Care or Pharmacist
When symptoms don’t improve with home care, or you need help deciding which treatments are safe and effective, Boulder Medical Center offers two convenient resources in the heart of Boulder, Colorado.
Boulder Medical Center Urgent Care
Located at 2750 Broadway, our urgent care clinic is open seven days a week with extended hours and walk-in availability. Our providers can evaluate your symptoms, rule out infections, and help you recover.
Boulder Medical Center Pharmacy
Located inside our Boulder Broadway clinic, our pharmacists offer personalized guidance on over-the-counter medications, cold remedies, and allergy relief options. The pharmacy is open to all patients, and no appointment is necessary.