For parents, a child with allergy symptoms like a runny nose is hardly a surprising sight. Kids get sick–and most kids will get sick pretty often! While sniffling and sneezing is often attributed to the common cold, not every instance of a runny nose is due to infection or illness. In many cases, these symptoms are caused by an allergic reaction.

For parents and adults alike, it can be challenging to differentiate between virus-caused sniffles and allergy-induced sneezing. That’s especially true because allergies can develop at any age. The pet dander you were surrounded by as a child could, in theory, cause an allergic reaction in you as an adult. That can make it difficult to connect the dots.

That’s why paying close attention to your symptoms can help. There are some less commonly known allergy symptoms, in particular, that can help you put the puzzle pieces together. And when you better understand the cause of symptoms, it’s easier to find more effective treatment options.

What are Allergy Symptoms

Allergy symptoms tend to vary from person to person and will often depend significantly on the allergen. Food allergies, for example, tend to present in a specific way (causing swelling, itching, stomach cramps, gastrointestinal issues, and more). These particular symptoms are difficult to miss and, often, easy to associate with a specific, food-based allergen.

Self-assessment of symptoms gets a little more challenging when it comes to allergic reactions that present in the respiratory system. Allergens such as pollen, pet dander, dust, and mold will produce symptoms that are often quite similar to those of a common cold. Often, this means sneezing and a runny nose. Many people assume that any symptoms beyond increased mucus production is the result of an infection or illness. But that’s not necessarily the case.

Lesser Known Signs of an Allergic Reaction

So, what are allergy symptoms and what are cold symptoms? Unfortunately, allergy symptoms can present in a variety of ways. Some cold-like symptoms are often used by individuals to self-assess a virus as the cause. In reality, the following symptoms can also be caused by allergies:

• Fatigue: Most people associate fatigue with illness. But your body’s response to an allergen is very similar to your body’s response to a virus or bacteria: and that means your body will likely experience fatigue. Just like a cold, your allergies can make you very tired!
• Headaches: Allergic responses can cause inflammation of the sinuses and nasal passages. This is called allergic rhinitis, and it can easily lead to a buildup of mucus in your sinuses. This sinus pressure can be painful, resulting in headaches.
• Dizziness: In some cases, this buildup of mucus and inflammation in the sinuses can interfere with the normal functioning of your inner ear. This can result in dizziness, vertigo, and other balance issues.

These symptoms may point to either a cold or an allergic reaction as the source of your sneezing. Knowing them can help you avoid a mis-assessment. But are there any symptoms which are more likely to point towards allergies than an infection?

Symptoms That Point to Allergies

Only a highly qualified medical professional will be able to accurately diagnose your symptoms. However, there are some signs which may strongly indicate that an allergic reaction is the source of your runny nose. These symptoms can include:

• Itchiness: If your eyes get red and itchy, that could be a sign you’re dealing with an allergic reaction. That said, there are some specific illnesses that cause red and itchy eyes (pink eye, for example).
• Clear mucus: In many cases, infections will cause discolored mucus. Your mucus may look especially yellow or green. That means if your mucus is clear, an allergic reaction may be more likely to be the source of your symptoms. However, an examination by a medical professional will be needed to provide an accurate diagnosis.

Can an ENT Help with Allergy Symptoms?

Allergy shots (also known as immunotherapy) can provide long term resistance to allergens, delivering long-lasting relief from allergy-induced sneezing, headaches, and fatigue. These treatments can be provided to adults and to children over the age of five, and can address a wide variety of allergens.

Don’t let hidden allergy symptoms point you in the wrong direction. Get your allergies evaluated at ENT Medical Services and find the relief you’re looking for. Call 319.351.5680 to schedule an appointment today.