How can i tell if i am having a cold or it's just my allergies. i have chronic rhinitis but i took cetirizine and does not feel better.

Timing and history: It can be confusing. But a good history may help as well as some testing by allergist. Colds: involve sick contact, does not last longer than 10-14d, sometimes assoc fever, stomach issues, muscle aches, allergic rhinitis: occur near same time every year, last longer than 14d, no assoc symptoms. Skin testing will be positive to environmental triggers. Saline rinse nose will help with both.

May still allergy: Since you already have history of allergic rhinnitis , unless you have other acute symptoms like fever, myalgia, you likely have an exacerbation of the rhinnitis. You may benefit from steroid nasal spray and leukotriene inhibitors like montelukast.