A member asked:

How can you tell the difference between a cold and allergies? i've got a ragweed allergy and i've got a stuffy nose, and have been coughing.

A doctor has provided 1 answer

Dr. Lori Semel answered

Specializes in Pediatrics

Not Easy: Honestly, I have looked at many patients cold vs allergy. The only semi reliable way that I have found to decide is to look at the mucous membranes (turbinates) in the nose and if they are pale to purplish and not red and weepy, it is usuallly allergic rhinitis. Otherwise, the two presentations are almost exactly the same.

Dr Fowler and another doctor agreed

Answered 5/8/2015

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A member asked:

How can you tell the difference between a cold and allergies? i've got a ragweed allergy and i've got a stuffy nose, and have been coughing.

A doctor has provided 1 answer

Dr. Lori Semel answered

Dr Fowler and another doctor agreed

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