Influenza and allergies are common conditions that affect the respiratory system, and their symptoms may be similar, which leads to difficulty in distinguishing them.
However, the cause of the disease, and the methods of treatment varies greatly. Understanding the difference between these two cases in correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment helps.
Common symptoms
The symptoms between influenza and allergies are similar, including (coughing, runny nose, big Allergy.
These symptoms continue in influenza cases from 5 to 10 days, while they continue in cases of allergies as long as the cause remains.
The influenza is diagnosed through clinical symptoms, and it may be confirmed by laboratory tests such as the PCR test of the virus, while allergies are diagnosed by a skin test of allergies or blood tests for measuring antibodies (IGE).
The differences between influenza and allergies
The color of the nose secretions differs from cold from allergies. In the cold, it turns yellow or green after a period ranging from 3 to 5 days, while in allergies it is clear in color and does not change over time.
Allergy occurs in cases of weather change only and appear, especially during the periods of weather fluctuations and the spread of pollen in the spring.
Sensitivity causes dark circles under the eye, and the cause is due to the congestion of the small blood vessels located under the skin in that delicate area, despite the similarity with the colds in this matter, but it does not appear in the same degree in cases of allergies.
The spread of symptoms with the surrounding people confirms that it is a condition caused by the cold and influenza, as allergies are not a contagious disease.
Ways for treatment
In the case of influenza, it is necessary to rest, a lot of fluids, and antipyretics, and anti -virals such as oseltamivir can be used in early cases or for patients at risk, as well as prevention through annual vaccination.
As for allergies, allergens must be avoided, antihistamine, steroid nasal sprays, and eye drops, and immunotherapy (allergy injection) may be used in chronic cases.
